The Thyroid Connection

Very interesting book. I've been struggling with an undiagnosed hypothyroid for a few years. I don't think my symptoms are as bad as some people are going through, but they still aren't fun. This book offers advice for anyone struggling with a thyroid condition, whether over-active or under-active. Everything from diet, to supplements, to exercise and just general support. I can't wait to try to some of the ideas in this book and see if it helps me.

I was very excited and curious to have an opportunity to read this book when I saw it appear on Netgalley. And I am actually still reading it as it is the type of resource readers with health issues will refer to frequently. "The Thyroid Connection" is providing some helpful answers as well as giving me the feeling that "I am not alone" and "It is not all in my head", as thyroid conditions are very frustrating and uncomfortable to deal with. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this book. I recommend it for the millions of people who suffer from thyroid disease in all its forms.

What You Eat Affects How Your Brain Processes Thought And Emotion

THE THYROID CONNECTION is a positive, uplifting book, containing practical ways to address many different types of thyroid dysfunction. Dr. Amy Myers has argues that conventional medicine has been an abysmal failure--even failing to do the most basic steps: "Conventional medicine is failing far too many people. And nowhere is this failure more evident than with thyroid dysfunction."

Most doctors don't even try to reverse thyroid problems, because "they just don’t believe it’s possible." I was surprised to hear about the huge amount of pharmaceuticals used to treat thyroid problems: "Synthroid is now our country’s most prescribed drug, with 21.5 million prescriptions written each year." Oftentimes, the problems is underdiagnosed and improperly treated.

The good news, Dr. Myers notes, is that drugs are often not necessary. Speaking from her many years of experience, she encourages the reader to not be so quick to jump on the drug bandwagon: "Many of my patients can restore healthy thyroid function simply through diet and lifestyle changes alone." The author has personally treated thousands, and offers an optimistic view: "I’m here to tell you that vibrant, glowing health is not a fantasy. My patients achieve it every day, and I know you can too. . . Virtually everyone reading this book can expect to achieve a state of vibrant health and well-being."

Dr. Myers notes a caution--she is not claiming that her plan actually cures an autoimmune condition. A 100% cure is not medically realistic: "Once you are autoimmune, your immune system will always have the potential to attack your own body, destroying vital cells, damaging organs, and otherwise wreaking havoc." So, the author's plan is focused on minimizing the impact, to help avoid the need for drugs. Her plan helps "prevent any further damage to your thyroid."

The most valuable part of THE THYROID CONNECTION is the discussion on how stress harms your thyroid--and more importantly, what you can do about it. In Chapter 10 "The Stress Solution," Dr. Myers presents some proven methods to relieve stress. She presents a variety of time-tested ideas, such as hot baths, nature walks, controlled breathing, prayer, and meditation.

Don't miss Appendix A: "Letter to Your Doctor," in which Dr. Myers explains, in detailed medical terms, recommended tests and treatment to properly identify thyroid dysfunction.. The doctor also provides specific blood tests that should be made, as well as the expected test range results. She suggests you give this letter to your doctor,

I found THE THYROID CONNECTION to be a positive, optimistic resource. I found the author's credentials to be substantial. It's difficult to argue with someone who has successfully treated thousands of thyroid problems. Dr. Myers cites her own case studies showing how her plan helped actual patients. Chapter 12 provides a detailed, 28 day plan, with specific meals, snacks, and de-stressors for each day. The book also has many appendices with helpful information, such as support groups and organizations. Chapter 14 contains The Myers Way Thyroid Connection Plan Recipes.

Advance Review Copy courtesy of NetGalley.