Hypothyroidism is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones to meet the body’s needs. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and overall health. When the thyroid gland is not functioning correctly, a person may experience symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, and depression.
Desiccated thyroid, also known as thyroid extract, is a natural treatment option for hypothyroidism that has been in use for over a century. It is made from the thyroid gland of pigs and contains both T3 and T4 hormones. In this article, we will discuss how desiccated thyroid works, its benefits and drawbacks, and why it is still a relevant treatment option for hypothyroidism.
How Desiccated Thyroid Works
Desiccated thyroid works by replacing the deficient thyroid hormones in the body. The thyroid gland produces two main hormones, T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). T3 is the more active hormone. While T4 is converted to T3 in the body. When a person has hypothyroidism, their thyroid gland is not producing enough of these hormones.
Desiccated thyroid contains both T3 and T4 hormones in the same proportions as the thyroid gland of pigs. When a person takes desiccated thyroid, these hormones are absorbed into the body and replace the deficient thyroid hormones. This helps to regulate metabolism, increase energy levels, and improve overall health.
Benefits of Desiccated Thyroid
Desiccated thyroid has several benefits over synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
- First, it contains both T3 and T4 hormones, which are essential for optimal thyroid function. Synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy usually only contains T4 hormone. Which may not be converted to T3 efficiently in some people.
- Second, desiccated thyroid is a natural treatment option. It is made from the thyroid gland of pigs. Which is very similar to the human thyroid gland. Synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy is made in a laboratory. And may not be as well-tolerated by some people.
- Third, desiccated thyroid has been in use for over a century and has a long track record of safety and efficacy. It has been used successfully to treat hypothyroidism in millions of people worldwide.
Desiccated Thyroid vs. Synthetic Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy
Synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy is the most commonly prescribed treatment option. It is made in a laboratory and only contains T4 hormone.
Desiccated thyroid, on the other hand, is a natural treatment option that contains both T3 and T4 hormones. It is made from the thyroid gland of pigs and has been in use for over a century.
Studies have shown that both desiccated thyroid and synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy can effectively treat hypothyroidism. However, some studies suggest that desiccated thyroid may provide better symptom relief for some patients.
Additionally, some patients may prefer desiccated thyroid over synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy because it is a natural treatment option. However, it is important to note that desiccated thyroid may not be appropriate for all patients, especially those with certain medical conditions or allergies.
Conclusion
Desiccated thyroid is a natural treatment option for hypothyroidism that has been in use for over a century. It contains both T3 and T4 hormones and can effectively replace deficient thyroid hormones in the body. Treatment of primary hypothyroidism in adults can be possible with it. While it has several benefits over synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy, such as being a natural treatment option and containing both T3 and T4 hormones, it also has some drawbacks, such as variability in hormone content and potential for allergic reactions.
Ultimately, the decision to use desiccated thyroid or synthetic thyroid hormone replacement therapy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider. For some patients, desiccated thyroid may be a more suitable and effective treatment option for hypothyroidism.
