Many of my patients with thyroid disorders (underactive or overactive thyroid gland) develop hair loss, brittle hair, or thinning hair directly related to their thyroid condition. Thyroid disorders are reversible, but not everyone understands how to slow, stop, or reverse thyroid hair loss. Medications like levothyroxine, individualized nutrient therapy, and simple lifestyle changes like avoiding…
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Agmatine is a metabolite of the amino acid L-Arginine that can be consumed as a supplement. Agmatine may relieve neuropathic pain, anxiety, depression, and even drug addiction. Also known as 4-aminobutyl-guanidine, agmatine was discovered in 1910 by Albrecht Kossel. Early on, researchers explored agmatine for its uses in people with diabetes. Recently, it’s been suggested…
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Zinc is an essential mineral crucial to a healthy, functioning body. It’s a common dietary supplement, ensuring people get enough zinc if their diet is lacking. For men, zinc may boost testosterone, regulate metabolism, prevent prostate health problems, support immune function, and more. Keep reading to learn more about the evidence-based benefits of zinc. Or…
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N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a powerful antioxidant and a semi-essential amino acid that supports immune system function. The most common uses of NAC are the treatment of respiratory conditions, Tylenol overdose, and kidney damage. But that’s far from all NAC can do — it’s linked to better mental health, increased fertility, and may even improve symptoms…
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Zinc may not act as a cure-all when you’re sick, but studies show it can shorten the duration of your cold and the severity of symptoms. It’s even more effective when you act quickly. Those same studies report shorter colds with the use of zinc at the first sign of illness. What Does Research Say…
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A healthy immune system touches every aspect of overall wellness. Maintaining a healthy immune system should be part of any long-term health strategy, but there are ways to boost your immune system even when you’re not feeling your best. Supplements that include vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, and other ingredients proven to provide immune support…
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You may not experience the extensive health benefits of vitamin D3 if you don’t have enough vitamin K2 to transport the D3 through your body. Together, these fat-soluble vitamins support bone health, heart health, and immune function. Vitamin D is sometimes referred to as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ because the body produces it through exposure to…
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Thyrotropin, or thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is the primary hormone produced by the pituitary gland to regulate the thyroid. Lab-designated normal TSH levels fall between 0.5 and 5.0 mIU/L (milli-international units per liter), but this range is not a one-size-fits-all number. TSH levels in a blood sample are used to assess thyroid function. Certain conditions like…
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The low-FODMAP diet is an evidence-based treatment for IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), but it’s not for everyone. This diet restricts the consumption of “FODMAPs,” which are specific types of fermentable short-chain carbohydrates that can resist digestion. “FODMAP” is an acronym for “fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols” which are all types of carbohydrates your gut…
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Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland) can cause severe headaches. How it causes headaches is unclear, but nearly one-third of hypothyroid patients report frequent headaches. Magnesium supplementation and levothyroxine may both help reduce the frequency and severity of hypothyroidism-related headaches. At least 5% of American adults have hypothyroidism (probably many more undiagnosed), while more than 50% of…
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