Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (253 page)

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Take L-tyrosine. This amino acid is needed for normal thyroid function.

EXTRA TIPS

Exercise every day. Exercise stimulates the metabolism and gets the blood circulating to all areas. Yoga is particularly good, as the inverted postures get the blood circulating to the thyroid gland in the neck.

Take the thyroid temperature test. Put a thermometer by your bed. When you wake in the morning, put the thermometer under your arm and lie still with it there for 10 minutes. Record your temperature in this way for five consecutive days. If it is consistently below 97.7°F, then your thyroid may be somewhat underactive.

HYSTERECTOMY-RELATED DISORDERS

Hysterectomy refers to the removal of the uterus by surgical procedures. In a total hysterectomy, the cervix and the ovaries are removed. In a partial hysterectomy, only the uterus is removed.

The most dramatic effects are felt if the ovaries are removed as well as the uterus. Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and insomnia can arise, menstruation ceases, and conception is no longer possible. Estrogen production is dramatically reduced. Even when the ovaries remain intact, estrogen production is reduced and menopause is often earlier than it might have been. Many women complain of a complete plummet in libido and report little or no sexual desire.

Other effects include a greater risk of osteoporosis as the protective effects of estrogen and progesterone are reduced, and increased risk of heart disease.

CAUSES

Cysts and fibroids.

Prolapse of the uterus.

Endometriosis.

Persistent and heavy bleeding.

Action plan

This may be an important time to support the adrenal glands, as once ovarian production of estrogen ceases or diminishes, adrenal production should increase.

EAT/DRINK

Essential fatty acids. Good sources include mackerel, salmon, trout, sardines, herring, flax seeds, hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds. These also contain vitamin E. Both vitamin E and essential fats are needed for healing after surgery and hormone balancing.

Green vegetables. These are high in both calcium and magnesium needed for bone health. Other foods that contain both calcium and magnesium include oats, chickpeas, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, almonds, sesame seeds, tahini, amaranth, and quinoa.

Dandelion-root coffee for liver and bowel health. The liver is responsible for breaking down old hormones and removing them from the body via the bowel.