How To Test and Treat THYROID problems Naturally | Barbara O'Neill

Summary

This video script delves into thyroid health, highlighting Dr. David Brownstein's expertise on iodine's crucial role in thyroid function. It emphasizes the importance of iodine and selenium for proper thyroid hormone conversion, the negative impact of mercury on selenium levels, and the opposing effect of high estrogen on thyroid function. The script suggests practical solutions like Lugol's solution for iodine testing, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes to address thyroid issues, advocating for a balanced approach to metabolism regulation.

Takeaways

• 📚 Dr. David Brownstein is an expert on iodine and author of a book emphasizing its importance for life.
• 🧪 Iodine deficiency can cause both overactive and underactive thyroid conditions, as iodine is essential for thyroid function.
• 🌊 Iodized salt is not a reliable source of iodine as it loses its iodine content quickly after opening.
• 🌿 Natural sources of iodine include Celtic salt and Himalayan salt, but they may not be reliable due to environmental factors.
• 💧 Lugol's solution is a test for iodine deficiency, combining iodine and iodide for different bodily functions.
• ⏱ The iodine patch test involves applying Lugol's solution to the skin and observing how long it remains visible to assess iodine levels.
• 🌰 Selenium is necessary for the conversion of iodine into thyroxin, and Brazil nuts are a good dietary source of selenium.
• ⚠️ Mercury exposure can deplete selenium levels, affecting the thyroid's function; sources of mercury include fish, dental fillings, and vaccines.
• 🚫 High estrogen levels can oppose thyroid function, and sources of estrogen include contraceptive pills, plastics, and certain foods.
• 🧘‍♀️ Hormone balancing programs and lifestyle changes are suggested to address thyroid issues related to high estrogen.
• 🏋️‍♂️ High-intensity interval training can help stimulate the thyroid gland, especially in cases of underactive thyroid.

Q & A

Who is Dr. David Brownstein and what is his expertise?

Dr. David Brownstein is an expert on iodine. He has written a book titled 'Iodine: Why You Need It and Why You Can't Live Without It,' in which he discusses the importance of iodine for thyroid function.

What does Dr. Brownstein's book suggest about thyroid issues?

Dr. Brownstein's book suggests that both overactive and underactive thyroid conditions are usually due to a lack of iodine.

Why is iodine important for the thyroid gland?

Iodine is crucial for the thyroid gland as it is the primary element needed for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism.

How can one determine if they are iodine deficient?

One can determine iodine deficiency by using Lugol's solution, a combination of iodine and iodide. Applying a drop to the skin and observing how long it remains brown can indicate iodine levels.

What happens to the iodine in iodized salt after it is opened?

The iodine in iodized salt is volatile and can be gone within an hour of opening the container.

Why is there no iodine in Celtic or Himalayan salt?

There is no iodine in Celtic or Himalayan salt because iodine is lost through evaporation during the salt's production process.

What is the role of selenium in thyroid function?

Selenium is necessary for the conversion of iodine into thyroxin, which is essential for proper thyroid function.

How can mercury exposure affect selenium levels in the body?

Mercury has an affinity for selenium, meaning that exposure to mercury can lead to selenium deficiency, which in turn affects the conversion of iodine into thyroxin.

What are some sources of mercury exposure mentioned in the script?

The script mentions three sources of mercury exposure: fish (especially larger fish due to bioaccumulation), dental fillings, and vaccines.

Why are high levels of estrogen opposed to thyroid function?

High levels of estrogen can oppose thyroid function, potentially leading to thyroid issues. This can be caused by factors such as the contraceptive pill, certain plastics, and growth stimulants in dairy and eggs.

What are some natural ways to balance estrogen levels and support thyroid function?

To balance estrogen levels and support thyroid function, one can consider eliminating exposure to xenoestrogens found in certain plastics, avoiding the contraceptive pill, and possibly using natural hormone-balancing herbs or creams like wild yam.

How can physical methods like ice and heat help with overactive and underactive thyroid conditions?

For overactive thyroid conditions, applying ice can help slow down the metabolism, while for underactive thyroid conditions, heat can stimulate the thyroid gland and increase its activity.