As you can see, TSH is NOT the only piece of the puzzle. Here are some main problems that can arise in this system. 1. Problems with peripheral conversion (green arrow). The body is not able to convert T4 into the more active hormone T3. Peripheral thyroid imbalances may arise from nutrient short- ages, heavy metal exposure, adrenal stress, enzyme deficien- cies, insulin resistance, and other chronic illness.
2. Immune system interference (blue circle). This occurs when your body makes antibodies that bind to T4 and basically shut it down. High levels of auto-antibodies (anti-thyroglobulin and anti-thyroidal peroxidase antibodies) accompany this condition. Thyroid antibody levels are thought to most often arise from food allergies.
In light of this information, wouldn’t you want to know what
the level of the most active hormone is? This is why I believe the most accurate test to assess thyroid function is Free T3 (red circle). If there is a problem with central regulation, peripheral conver- sion, or immune system interference your T3 will go down. An optimal level of Free T3 is between 3.6-4.6 pg/ml. Since T3 is the most active hormone and best correlates with symptoms, wouldn’t you also want to take supplemental T3? I recommend Armour Thyroid or Nature-Throid since both contain T3 as op- posed to Synthroid (Levothyroxine) which only contains T4.
So, one can most definitely have a normal TSH but still have
inadequate thyroid use at the cellular level. Remember, you know your body better than any doctor ever will. If you feel like there may be a problem with your thyroid but are always told it is “normal” do not get discouraged, you just need to find a doctor willing to look outside the box.
Be well!
Dr. Weston "Wiggy" Saunders is an Integrative and Functional Medicine Physician. He will be joining Robinhood Integrative Health in July and is now accepting new patients. Please call 768-3335 for an appointment. See ad on page 12.
Dr. Wiggy can be seen at 6:45am Tuesdays and Thursdays on WXII-12 News Mornings.
Please send your questions to
AskDrWiggy@NaturalTriad.com
Visit Dr. Virtue for Biocompatible Dentistry
• State-of-the-Art: cleanings, digital X-Ray technology, metal-free Cerac restorations, veneers, alternative periodontal treatment, Invisalign, whitening, conscious sedation, 6-month smiles, and we are mercury-safe and fluoride-free!
• Experience & Longevity: Dr. Virtue has over 32 years of experience. His staff has been with him for up to 30 years!
• Leadership: Dr. Virtue is the executive VP of the American Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology. He is also a fellow in the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology and as such enjoys teaching safe techniques for mercury filling removal.
VIRTUE DENTAL CARE 336.679.2034 Natural Triad Magazine
301 East Lee Avenue • Yadkinville, NC General Dentistry
www.VirtueDental.com JUNE 2012
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