Weight Loss Series - Step 1: Understand the Problem

Understanding The Problem

The first step to understanding how to lose weight begins with understanding the problem. One of the challenges with long term weight concerns is Syndrome X or Metabolic Syndrome. Syndrome X. It is the existence of at least two of the following:

• Central Obesity. Here we are referring to that weight gain around the middle. This is the most dangerous place to gain and carry weight as it has been determined to cause heart problems and predisposes us to diabetes.
• Insulin Resistance
• High Cholesterol
• High Blood Pressure

We call this Syndrome X because these issues are linked together. For example if you have central weight gain, you are most likely pre-diabetic.

In 2005, people with diabetes were estimated to account for 7% of the US population, or approximately 20.8 million people.3 Of these 20.8 million people, 14.6 million have a diagnosis of diabetes, and diabetes is undiagnosed in another 6.2 million. Approximately 5-10% have type 1 diabetes, 90-95% have type 2 diabetes, and 1-5% have other types. Additionally, an estimated 54 million people have pre-diabetes. Pre-diabetes, as defined by the American Diabetes Association, is that state in which blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. It is presumed that most persons with elevated glucose levels approaching the level needed for the diagnosis of diabetes will subsequently progress to diabetes.

Where are we  headed?

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services said that because of this  epidemic our current generation is the first one in history predicted to have a shorter life expectancy than the previous generation.This is true! And scary! But what can be done? Help is available with sound proven, medically supervised protocols. 

For more information contact Advanced Health Clinic

Nutritional Deficiencies

Nutritional deficiencies also play a big role in thyroid dysfunction. These include deficiencies of

iodine, vitamin D, omega-3 fats, selenium, zinc, vitamin A, and the B vitamins. Most people simply aren't getting enough iodine in their diet to begin with. The amount you get from iodized salt is just barely enough to prevent you from getting a goiter.

How Much Iodine Do You Need for Thyroid Health?

In Japan, the daily dose of iodine obtained from the diet averages around 2,000 to 3,000 micrograms (mcg) or 2-3 milligrams (mg), and there's reason to believe this may be a far more adequate amount than the US recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 150 mcg. Some argue for even higher amounts than that, such as Dr. Brownstein, who recommends 12.5 milligrams (mg) on a regular basis. Another proponent of higher iodine amounts is Guy Abraham, an ob-gyn and endocrinologist at the University of Southern California.  There's a fairly careful study showing that the thyroid gland does not start to downregulate until we get to 14 or 14.5 milligrams of total iodine and iodide. This is probably why Dr. Abraham first, and then others, have designed both liquids and tablets that come out with 12 or 12.5 mg. For most women, six to six and a quarter milligrams, and for the guys, who don't have as much massive breast tissue, recommendations are to stay with three milligrams. 

Iodine Helps Protect Breast Health Too...

There's compelling research suggesting that iodine is equally important for breast health, and that iodine – not iodide – combines with a lipid to form molecules that actually kill breast cancer cells. "Breasts are big sponges for iodine," according to Dr. Wright, a leading researcher. "Not iodide so much; that's the thyroid gland. But if you have enough iodine, why, those molecules are just sitting there ready waiting to kill new breast cancer cells!" According to Dr. Wright, iodine is also crucial for other breast-related problems, such as fibrocystic breast disease, for which iodine works nearly every time. Interestingly, for severe cases, it's recommended to swab the entire cervix with iodine. For breast cancer prevention, most physicians recommend more than three milligrams of iodine for women.

To learn more, visit us at Advanced Health Clinic

Understanding the Causes of Hypothyroidism

Chronic Inflammation

The next major factor that affects thyroid function is chronic inflammation. The biggest

source of this chronic inflammation is gluten, the protein found in wheat, barley, rye, spelt, and oats. Gluten is a very common allergen that affects about 10 to 20 percent of the population. This reaction occurs mostly because of our damaged guts, poor diet, and stress. In addition, hybridized and genetically modified grains with very strange proteins, makes us sick. Our bodies say, “What’s this – it must be something foreign. I’d better create antibodies to this, fight it, and get rid of it.” This chronic inflammatory response interferes with thyroid function — and contributes to the epidemic of inflammatory diseases in the developed world. One method of helping with sensitivities is NAET. NAET is a non-invasive, drug free, natural solution to alleviate allergies of all types and intensities using a blend of selective energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures from acupuncture/acupressure, allopathy, nutritional, and kinesiological disciplines of medicine. For more information, visit Advanced Health Clinic