Levothyroxine and Supplements

[alextosh]

I was diagnosed with an underactive thyroid in February and have been taking Levothyroxine at a gradually increasing dose and am now on 100mg (although I had to push my gp to increase it).

My blood tests have come back within the 'normal' range for the past 4 months; however, despite this I still have most of the symptoms (albeit to a lesser extent). I am however, still gaining weight, despite my very restricted diet and running 20 miles a week and attending 5 exercise classes (which as you can imagine leaves me even more exhausted).

I have proposed to my gp that the medication is obviously not working, but she refuses to do any more and is now saying I am still gaining weight because I am depressed and I now have to attend a clinic for weigh management!!. I am not depressed, just frustrated.

I am now at the stage where I need to try and help myself. I have decided to take multi vitamins and bought some today, but I have noticed that they contain Iodine in the form of kelp and have read that if you are taking Levothyroxine you should not take iodine. I am now of course nervous about taking them. And what about taking extra amino acids, such as L-tyrosine.

I've have read some much conflicting information that I don't know what to believe. I hope someone can help with the correct information.

[donna]

Hi sorry to hear your still feeling bad even though you have been diagnosed and being treated..NOT UNUSUAL! l am in the same position as you 3years down the line..you are quite right to take control and start doing for your self..researching and finding alternatives .ive been where you are and its VERY frustrating...l would strongley recomend you read Your Thyroid and how to keep it healthy......

by Dr Barry Durrant -Peatfield..l have read it through once and l am in the process of reading it again..its written in simple to understand mode ( even though when your brain isnt functioning! just have to reread somethings!and is REALLY helpful in being able to help yourself and gives you confidence to be able to speak with your dr with a new found knowledge...the book is mentioned lots on other peoples blogs and Dr Durrant is a adviser to thyroiduk.org im just reading the bit about supplements and there is a BIG section on the adrenals whih are Very relevent and dont usually figure in your gps treatment..check out bunnys blog..there is another book on adrenals recomended by dr wison written about on her blog as well as the thyroid book....you know if your feeling poorly ..dont let anyone convince you otherwise..listen to your body..

good luck x

[alextosh in reply to donna]

Thank you Donna. My husband has ordered this book for me already...just waiting for it to arrive. I just wanted to get started on taking some extra vitamins, but now I'm not sure what to do.