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.

Outlines

00:00

🧪 Iodine Deficiency and Thyroid Health

This paragraph discusses the importance of iodine for thyroid function, referencing Dr. David Brownstein's expertise and his book on iodine. It explains that both overactive and underactive thyroid conditions are often due to iodine deficiency. The paragraph suggests using Lugol's solution as a test for iodine levels, where the disappearance rate of the iodine mark can indicate iodine sufficiency. It also mentions that iodized salt is not a reliable source of iodine, and that natural sources like Celtic salt and plants near the sea are better. Selenium is highlighted as necessary for the conversion of iodine to thyroxin, and mercury fillings are identified as a risk factor due to their affinity for selenium, which can lead to selenium deficiency.

05:02

🚫 Eliminating Mercury Exposure

The second paragraph focuses on the dangers of mercury exposure, which can be detrimental to thyroid function due to its impact on selenium levels. It outlines three main sources of mercury exposure: large fish, silver-colored dental fillings, and vaccines, with a specific mention of the flu vaccine. The paragraph also recounts the historical Minamata Bay incident in Japan, where mercury poisoning led to neurological issues, including the 'dancing cat disease.' Additionally, it touches on the term 'Mad Hatter's disease,' which was a result of hat makers' exposure to mercury. The summary emphasizes the importance of eliminating mercury exposure to maintain thyroid health.

10:02

♻️ Reducing Estrogen and Plastic Exposure

This paragraph addresses the impact of high estrogen levels on thyroid function, which can be caused by factors such as contraceptive pills, certain plastics, and dairy products. It suggests that xenoestrogens from soft plastics and synthetic fabrics can contribute to elevated estrogen levels. The paragraph recommends eliminating exposure to plastics and contraceptive pills, as well as considering hormone balancing programs and natural remedies like wild yam cream to counteract the effects of high estrogen. It also mentions the importance of addressing these factors to achieve a balance in thyroid function.

15:05

🏋️‍♂️ Managing Overactive and Underactive Thyroid Conditions

The final paragraph provides insights into managing overactive and underactive thyroid conditions. For overactive thyroid, it suggests the use of ice to slow down the metabolism and recommends a diet with three meals a day and vegetable juices. For underactive thyroid, it proposes the use of cane compress in the morning and high-intensity interval training to stimulate the thyroid gland. The paragraph also discusses the metabolic effects of thyroid conditions, noting that overactive thyroid leads to fast metabolism and weight loss, while underactive thyroid results in slow metabolism, weight gain, and lethargy.

Keywords

💡Thyroid

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck that plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism. In the video, thyroid function is discussed in the context of both overactivity and underactivity, which are linked to various health issues. The script mentions that both conditions can be due to a lack of iodine, highlighting the gland's importance in the video's theme.

💡Iodine

Iodine is an essential trace element required by the body for the production of thyroid hormones. The video emphasizes Dr. David Brownstein's expertise on iodine and its importance for thyroid health. The script explains that both overactive and underactive thyroid conditions are often due to iodine deficiency, and it suggests using Lugol's solution as a test for iodine levels.

💡Lugol's Solution

Lugol's Solution is a mixture of iodine and potassium iodide, which is used in the script as a test to determine iodine deficiency. The video describes a method of applying the solution to the skin and observing how long it remains visible as an indicator of the body's iodine levels, thus relating directly to the discussion on thyroid health.

💡Selenium

Selenium is a vital mineral that the body needs for various functions, including the conversion of iodine into thyroxin, a thyroid hormone. The script mentions that a deficiency in selenium can lead to thyroid problems because it is required for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, and it suggests that consuming Brazil nuts can help provide the necessary selenium.

💡Mercury

Mercury is a heavy metal that can be toxic to the body and is highlighted in the video as an element that competes with selenium, potentially leading to thyroid issues. The script discusses various sources of mercury exposure, such as fish, dental fillings, and vaccines, and advises eliminating exposure to it to prevent selenium depletion.

💡Estrogen

Estrogen is a primary female sex hormone that, when in high levels, can oppose thyroid function according to the video. The script identifies high estrogen levels as a potential cause of thyroid problems and suggests that certain factors, such as contraceptive pills, plastics, and dairy products, can contribute to elevated estrogen levels.

💡Xenoestrogens

Xenoestrogens are environmental compounds that mimic the hormone estrogen in the body. The script refers to xenoestrogens as chemicals found in certain plastics that can contribute to high estrogen levels, which in turn can affect thyroid function negatively.

💡Thyrotoxicosis

Thyrotoxicosis, or an overactive thyroid, is a condition where the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones. The video describes symptoms like weight loss and rapid metabolism and suggests remedies such as using ice to slow down the overactive thyroid.

💡Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, is the opposite of thyrotoxicosis, where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. The script discusses symptoms like weight gain, sluggishness, and fatigue, and suggests using cane compress and high-intensity interval training to stimulate the thyroid gland.

💡High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

High Intensity Interval Training is a form of exercise that involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief recovery periods. The video suggests HIIT as a method to awaken the underactive thyroid gland due to its stimulating effect on the body's metabolism.

💡Hormone Balancing

Hormone balancing refers to the process of achieving a proper balance of hormones in the body to maintain health and prevent conditions like thyroid dysfunction. The script touches on the importance of balancing hormones, mentioning herbs and natural remedies that can help regulate estrogen levels and support thyroid health.

Highlights

Dr. David Brownstein is an expert on iodine and its crucial role in thyroid function.

His book 'Iodine: Why You Need It and Why You Can't Live Without It' discusses the importance of iodine for thyroid health.

Both overactive and underactive thyroid conditions are often due to iodine deficiency.

Iodized salt loses its iodine content within an hour of being opened.

Celtic and Himalayan salts do not contain iodine due to the evaporation process.

Plants grown near the sea have higher iodine content due to iodine in the soil from ocean waves.

Lugal solution is a test for iodine deficiency, combining iodine and iodide.

The Lugal solution test involves applying a drop to the skin and observing the color duration to assess iodine levels.

Selenium is necessary for the conversion of iodine to thyroxin, and mercury fillings can deplete selenium levels.

Consuming five Brazil nuts a day can provide the selenium needed for iodine conversion.

Mercury exposure can come from fish, dental fillings, and vaccines, affecting selenium levels.

High estrogen levels can oppose thyroid function, potentially causing thyroid issues.

Contraceptive pills, plastics, and dairy products can contribute to high estrogen levels.

Hormone balancing programs and natural remedies can help regulate estrogen and support thyroid health.

The thyroid gland controls metabolism, affecting weight and energy levels.

For overactive thyroids, ice application can help slow down the metabolism.

Underactive thyroids may benefit from cane compresses and high-intensity interval training to stimulate the gland.

Hot and cold therapy in the shower can also be applied to the thyroid area for both overactive and underactive conditions.

Transcripts

is anyone thinking of another disease

that we can

solve thid problems

thyroid okay let's look at

thyroid uh Dr David

Brownstein now Dr David

Brownstein is considered the expert on

iodine

and he's written a book called iodine

why you need it and why you can't live

without

it and in his book he shows

that overactive and underactive thyroid

are usually both due to lack of

iodine

so and the name of his book I won't

write it because a long name iodine why

you need it and why you can't live

without it that's the name of his book

so number one

iodine well how can you tell if someone

needs iodine because iodine is the

thyroids number one

food and what about iodized

salt did you know that within 1 hour of

opening the iodized salt all the

iodine's

gone did you know that there's no iodine

in Celtic salt and there's no iodine in

Himalayan

salt because it evaporates so when the

waves crash the iodine goes into sub

suspension goes across and lands on on

the soil that's why the uh plants grown

around the edge of a country near the

sea are higher in iodine and when it's

added to the yes that that can help but

what we suggest is to buy Lugal solution

Lugal solution

is a combination of iodine and iodide

and

iodine

iodide is used mostly by the the uh

reproductive organs of the body and the

iodine is used by the other organs of

the body so Lugal solution is a

combination of those two it's a dark

brown fluid and what you do is you put

it on the inside of the arm put one drop

there and it'll make a brown

smudge or Mark and then the person

observes how long it stays

Brown if the iodine's gone in an hour

that person's very

low if there's still some semblance of

color after 5 hours that person's got

good amounts of iodine so what do you do

if it's all gone in an hour you just

just put it on every day till it stays

for 5 hours that's simple isn't it so

that's a good iodine test now if the

person's washing their hands a lot they

might put it on their their stomach or

they might put it further

up because if the body is low in iodine

it'll grab it and it'll grab it quick

it's as simple as that yeah where are

most people getting it from them where

are most people getting it from probably

from from the food that they're eating

that's why it's commonly known people

that live in the in the central part of

uh countries are often uh low in iodine

but that's not the only that's not the

only

problem with the

thyroid

so iodine is

converted in the body to

thyroxin and thyrox and that conversion

needs

selenium and Mercury fillings have an

affinity for

selenium so when people have mercury

fillings in their mouth or they're

eating a lot of fish with high Mercury

they are often low in selenium so a

person can have adequate iodine but if

they don't have the selenium the iodine

can't be converted into

thyroxin and to get all your selenium

you just need five Brazil nuts a

day will give you the selenium that you

need

so number

two um eliminate Mercury

eliminate all exposure to

Mercury and there's three places we can

be exposed to Mercury where's

that yeah fish and the bigger the fish

the higher the concentration of mercury

because Mercury is bioaccumulative that

means the bigger the fish the more it

accumulates so fish where else we can we

be

exposed fillings in the teeth the silver

colored fillings and the third place we

can be

exposed is the vaccines

y I can't confirm if it's in the covid

vaccine or not but it is in the flu

vaccine so it's most likely in the co

but I

cannot say for

sure what's about some uh colors

painting the walls or something is there

a lot of mercury in it not

long not not usually okay good not

usually in about I think it was about

the 1970s in Min minamata Bay in Japan

they notice cats doing back

flips all these cats were doing

backflips

and uh they traced it to the Mercury

going into the water and the remember

Mercury is a heavy metal it's not in the

sea water so it's not in Celtic salt it

sinks to the bottom and the fish I mean

the plants take it up the little fish

eat the plants the bigger fish eat the

little

fish and they called it dancing cat

disease they didn't call it Mercury

disease now remember I said on my long

flight from Australia to

where did I fly into Dubai I was

watching some documentaries and I saw

one on minamata Bay was very interesting

because it had the whole story there and

it had and this guy came in as a

journalist to report on it and all these

deformed children and deformed old

people and the company that owned the I

think it was an aluminium Factory and

the the waste that was going to minamata

Bay was the was the Mercury

waste just incredible took a long time

before finally they acknowledged it and

did something about it but the the

fisherman's children the fisherman

themselves they were but they called it

dancing hat dancing cat disease not

Mercury disease and you've heard of Mad

Hatter's disease you know the Alice in

wonder there's the Mad Hatter in Alice

in wonder I have watch that or seen it

but you see I remember from a child

Alice in Wonderland there was a Mad

Hatter well Hatters went mad the Hatters

that made the top hats because they

would glue the felt together with

Mercury and like and So Mad Hatters

disease was Hatters would go mad because

of their exposure to Mercury so they

didn't call that mercury disease either

they called it mad Hat's disease because

Mercury is a

neurotoxin so eliminate all exposure to

Mercury because Mercury takes up the

selenium and selenium is needed to

convert iodine into

thyroxin number

three high estrogen opposes thyroid

function

so you can have someone with uh thyroid

problems because of because they've got

high estrogen what would cause high

estrogen any

ideas what causes high

estrogen contraceptive

pill

Plastics especially those soft Plastics

that have got the nonenal remember the

xenoestrogens coming from chemicals

coming

from uh

Plastics and you've got your plastic

Fabrics remember your uh acrylics nylons

polyesters so eliminate exposure to m

and

eliminate

Plastics and eliminate the contraceptive

pill and

dairy

Y and one of the reasons for dairy and

also uh

eggs is because are the growth

stimulants that are given to cows and

chickens and the growth stimulant is an

estrogenic

effect and

so what also needs to happen here is the

um

hormone balancing

program and we looked at that we looked

at the herbs that you can

use we also looked at um getting

together and ordering a whole box to get

it cost the Anna's wild yam cream from

Australia so that's an important part

because your high estrogen opposes your

thyroid

function these are areas that are not

often assessed but as I've just shown

you if you don't

get these back into balance you

won't you won't find a um a turnaround

of the of the problem and don't forget

the true remedies eight

laws

thyroid controls metabolism so if it's

overactive everything's fast

everything's fast they can't eat enough

food to

to because air metabolism is going so

fast and it's really they lose weight

because everything is going so

fast so with overactive thyroid it might

need to be supplemented with juices

definitely need three meals a day maybe

an hour before the meal they'll need a

vegetable juice just to keep

up and how do we slow down when it's

overactive how do we slow it down ice

ice ice and how do we ice 10 seconds on

10 seconds off 10 seconds on 10 seconds

off might do that for half an hour to

really chill

it and if the person's underweight which

they you often are with a overactive

thyroid gland you want to make sure the

rest of their body's

warm you might put their feet on a hot

water bottle or in in a bucket of hot

water to warm them up but you want that

slow it down

so so number six over we'll just say the

overactive thyroid gland

ice what about the

underactive what what will wake it

up cane

compress will we do that in the morning

or in the

afternoon morning morning morning if we

do it in the afternoon it'll wake them

up and they won't sleep much

do that it compressed you said or

internally

I

um 3 four

hours they might do it every second day

sometimes if they do it every day it

gets un too uncomfortably

hot and this is also where especially

with the

underactive exercise the high intensity

interval

training we're going to look at that in

detail

tomorrow because that high intensity

interval training wakes up the thyroid

gland because you're going so

fast could you do hot and colds to the

thyroid in the shower that's another

thing that could be

done so hot and

CS see with the overactive thyroid gland

they're usually a bit underweight they

can't sit still everything's fast fast

fast fast but with the

overactive they with the underactive

thyroid gland they're often carrying

excess less weight they're sluggish

they're slow they have no energy because

the thyroid grain controls

metabolism so overactive metabolism is

too fast underactive is too

slow so we've got a program then