Armour Thyroid Medication Shortage and Substitute

Armour Thyroid–the top-selling natural dessicated thyroid drug– is the medication that both my kids and myself are on for a low functioning thyroid. This thyroid medication has made a huge difference for everyone. Unfortunately, due to manufacturing problems, there is a shortage. Nature Thyroid is an alternative for anyone looking for a substitute for Armour Thyroid. From what I have read, it seems to be a hypoallergenic version of Armour–although it is made from pig thyroid. Synthroid contains only T4 and Cytomel contains only T3. Armour and Nature Thyroid contain all the thyroid hormones–T4 and T3 as well as some T1 and T2. Some people do well on Synthroid, especially if they are able to convert T4 into T3. Others feel better on the alternative medications that contain the full spectrum of hormones.

The thyroid needs iodine, zinc and selenium to function. Salt is supplemented with iodine to make sure that people get this necessary mineral. But too much iodine can also interfere with thyroid function and cause autoimmune thyroid disease, especially Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, so it is important to get just the right amount. Selenium is also a mineral that you need some of, but not too much. Mercury toxicity increases the need for selenium. But too much can be toxic. Zinc is also a critical mineral for thyroid function, but supplementation is tricky. It is worth getting a test for zinc and copper if you have symptoms of zinc deficiency, because zinc and copper compete for absorption and their ratio is critical.

What To Feed Your Kids: Basically, it is all very complicated which is why eating a healthy diet and taking a balanced multivitamin is so important for everyone–especially someone with a thyroid problem.

Links:
Top Five Supplements for Thyroid Support
Thyroid Disease Support Information

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Mainstream and Alternative Testing for Vitamins and Allergies