It is estimated that one in twenty people has a thyroid problem, with the majority of sufferers being women. To make matters worse, many who are affected by thyroid dysfunction are unaware that they have a problem and typically go undiagnosed for years. In the meantime, they experience a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain or loss, forgetfulness, sleepless nights, irritability, and more. But it doesn’t have to be this way. Written by best-selling author Dr. Pamela Wartian Smith, What You Must Know About Thyroid Disorders & What to Do About Them, Second Edition, enables readers to identify common thyroid problems and seek the treatment they need.
Written in easy-to-understand language, this updated edition begins by explaining how important the thyroid is in regulating the body’s metabolism, which, in turn, plays a vital role in controlling the functions of the heart, brain, liver, lungs, kidneys, and intestines. The book then goes on to discuss the most common thyroid-related disorders and symptoms, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, autoimmune dysfunction, celiac disease, thyroid cancer, mood swings, and excess weight gain. Each discussion features an overview of the disorder that can help readers to determine if they may be suffering from the problem. It then explains the disorder’s cause, common symptoms, and diagnostic tests, as well as both conventional and alternative treatment approaches. A handy resource section is also included to point the way to further support.

So many health problems are related to thyroid dysfunction, and so many individuals suffer needlessly—even though help is available. What You Must Know About Thyroid Disorders & What to Do About Them, Second Edition allows readers to take the first important step on the road to diagnosis, effective treatment, and wellness.

Pamela Wartian Smith, MD, MPH, is a diplomat of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Physicians and director of the Master's Program in Medical Sciences, with a concentration in Metabolic and Nutritional Medicine, at the University of South Florida College of Medicine. An authority on the subjects of wellness and anti-aging, Dr. Smith is also director of the Fellowship in Anti-Aging, Regenerative, and Functional Medicine. Currently, she is the owner and director of the Center for Healthy Living, with locations in Michigan and Florida. Dr. Smith is also the best-selling author of What You Must Know About Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs & More; What You Must Know About Women’s Hormones; What you Must Know About Memory Loss; and Why You Can’t Lose Weight.

Acknowledgements

Introduction

1. You and Your Thyroid

2. Hypothyroidism

3. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis

4. Hyperthyroidism

5. Graves’ Disease

6. Thyroid Disorders Caused by or Associated with Hyperthyroidism and Thyrotoxicosis

7. Thyroid Hormones and Your Memory

8. Thyroid Dysfunction and Your Mood

9. Thyroid Hormones and Your Heart

10. Thyroid Hormones and Hypertension

11. Thyroid Hormones and Digestive Health

12. Thyroid Hormones and Kidney Disease

13. Thyroid Hormones and the Reproductive System

14. Thyroid Hormones and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

15. Thyroid Hormone and Weight Gain

16. Thyroid Hormone and Insulin Resistance

17. Thyroid Hormone and COVID-19 and Post-COVID Syndrome

18. Thyroid Cancer

Conclusion

Resources

References

About the Author

Index

CHAPTER 1

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CHAPTER 2

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