Is your thyroid medication weakening your bones? New study reveals serious risks

by: | December 12, 2024
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thyroid-medication(NaturalHealth365)  Side effects from a drug that is commonly prescribed by U.S. doctors to treat hypothyroidism can cause serious health problems.  A recent study by the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine found that the hypothyroidism medication levothyroxine has been linked to decreased bone density and bone mass.

It is estimated that more than 12% of individuals in the U.S. alone will experience a thyroid condition at some point in their life.  Thyroid disease affects around 20 million Americans, and more than half of the people who have it don’t even know it.  Women are as much as eight times more likely than men to develop problems with their thyroid.

Some researchers feel that thyroid disease is overdiagnosed.  This is rooted in concerns about the overreliance on lab tests, the variability in symptoms, and a broad diagnostic threshold.

How hypothyroidism affects your life

Hypothyroidism can greatly decrease a person’s quality of life.  Symptoms include dry skin, fatigue, depression, weight gain, feeling cold, and brain fog.  Concentration and cognition problems are also frequently reported in hypothyroidism patients.  It can increase the risk of several serious medical conditions, such as pulmonary problems, obesity, dementia, cardiovascular disease, and fertility problems.

Levothyroxine has become the gold-standard drug for treating this condition.  However, this thyroid medication has a myriad of serious side effects that most patients are not aware of.  This is particularly concerning because most people taking the drug take it for the rest of their lives.

What did the study find?

Presented at the Radiological Society of North America’s Annual Meeting on November 25, 2024, the study followed 81 participants aged 65 and older who were taking levothyroxine to manage hypothyroidism.  All participants had typical thyrotropin levels and were monitored over six years.

The study found a concerning link between levothyroxine use and decreased bone density and bone mass.  This reduction in bone health can significantly increase the risk of fractures and falls, particularly in elderly patients, highlighting an important long-term consideration for those on thyroid medication.

Natural solutions for thyroid health

Taking a natural approach to supporting thyroid health is often the best option, as it generally comes with fewer side effects and less impact on your quality of life.  The goal is to address the root causes of thyroid issues, which can lead to more lasting improvements.

Start by having a comprehensive evaluation that includes lab tests, nutritional assessments, and a lifestyle review.  With this information, you and your healthcare provider can focus on targeted interventions like:

  • Dietary support:  Ensure adequate iodine intake, with extra selenium and zinc, and focus on a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods.
  • Stress management:  Incorporate stress-reducing practices like meditation, yoga, better sleep habits, and adrenal support.
  • Reducing toxic exposure:  Limit exposure to endocrine disruptors and heavy metals in food and the environment.
  • Balancing hormones:  Support overall endocrine health with a balanced approach to diet and lifestyle.

Addressing these areas can help improve thyroid function and support long-term health.

It’s also essential to maintain good overall health.  A well-rounded diet, regular exercise, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and managing stress all contribute to better thyroid and overall well-being.

Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to naturally overcome thyroid and adrenal health problems, own the Thyroid and Adrenal Health Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs.

Sources for this article include:

RSNA.org
Medicalnewstoday.com
Thyroid.org

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