vitamin and minerals to robert

[Guest guest]

, the warnings for thyroid meds and calcium are referring to thyroid

hormone replacement taken by those of us who are now hypo, not anti-thyroid

type meds. when thyroid hormone is taken with calcium, the calcium hinders

thyroid hormone absorption in the stomach. thyroid hormone competes

with food too, and its potency is destroyed by acidic compounds.we need to take

replacement hormone on an empty stomach.

Especially in GD you need to take plenty of vitamins and minerals.

In Graves' there are tremendous vitamin and mineral deficiencies due to

increased metabolism. These deficiencies cause some of the associated symptoms

such as restless leg syndrome, muscle fatigue. In " In Hypothyroidism, the Riddle

of Illness " , Dr. Langer describes deficiencies in hyperthyroidism. Of

special concern are the losses of vitamin C and E, which he says are sometimes

the cause of hyperthyroidism. B vitamins are also depleted. In particular, B6

may be so low it prevents protein absorption which causes wasting. Minerals,

especially calcium, magnesium and zinc are also depleted, and the copper/zinc

balance is thrown out of whack. on the e-group hyperthyroid site knows

more about the mineral deprivation. He can send you an 8 pg. description if

you contact him or i can forward my copy.

by the time i was diagnosed and treated, i had few symptoms and never took

a break from my regular exercise routine. People who have consistently exercised

for a long time seem to have less trouble keeping up with their routine,

but that, of course, depends on one's symptoms. Like if your heart is racing

out of your chest, you'll want to stick to stretching or yoga. Yoga or tai chi

for that matter will help you heal. For more on stress reduction and skilled

relaxation, see Walt Stoll's site. Although marijuana is relaxing, it can

precipitate and/or aggravate TED. Studies show that men usually have more

severe cases of both Graves' hyperthyroidism and TED, so you'll need to be

careful.

There's lots you can do to help yourself heal,especially where diet,

supplements,

and stress reduction go. Actively taking part in your healing like you're doing

participating on this board will significantly affect your outcome. good luck,

elaine