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LE Magazine September 2004
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Thyroid Deficiency
Preventing a Metabolic Meltdown
By Raphael Kellman, MD

Vitamin Supplements
Natural supplements for thyroid problems include vitamins A, B complex, B12, C, and E; coenzyme Q10; and especially the minerals magnesium, manganese, selenium, and zinc. Deficiencies of any of these minerals can prevent the conversion of T4 to T3 and should be corrected. Sufficient protein iodine and especially the amino acid tyrosine are necessary to make T4 in the thyroid gland.

Conclusion
The causes and effects of hypothyroidism are interrelated. Healthy thyroid function depends on the action of other glands, and many key processes in turn depend on healthy thyroid function. Using integrative medicine to treat these interrelated functional areas can offer patients tremendous benefits.

Dr. Raphael Kellman is director of the Kellman Center for Progressive Medicine in New York City. He can be reached at 212-532-0600 or by visiting the center’s website (www.kellmancenter.com). His latest book, Gut Reactions, is published by Random House.
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