Beyond the Thyroid - Episode 13: So You Don’t Want to Take Thyroid Medicine?

In Episode 13 of Beyond the Thyroid, I dive deep into a topic I hear about so often in my clinic—resistance to thyroid medication. Many people, understandably, don’t want to take thyroid medicine. But as I always tell my patients, the goal isn't just to avoid medication—it’s to avoid the symptoms that come with an underactive thyroid, like feeling cold, gaining unexplained weight, or being too tired to function.

So, in today’s episode, we start exploring thyroid medication—what it is, the different types, and how you know if you truly need it. This episode is so packed with information that I've split it into two parts. Let’s begin with part one!

What We Cover in This Episode:

• Why People Resist Thyroid Medication: I share common concerns patients have about starting thyroid hormone replacement and how these medicines can actually restore energy and vitality when used correctly.

• Understanding the Basics: I break down the different types of thyroid medication, from synthetic options like Levothyroxine (T4) to natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) like Armour Thyroid. Understanding the differences between these options helps patients feel more informed about their treatment.

• The Reality of Autoimmune Thyroid Damage: For many patients, the damage to their thyroid is permanent, especially if it’s due to autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s. For these individuals, refusing thyroid hormone replacement can have serious, even life-threatening, consequences.

• The Hype Around “Natural” Thyroid Treatments: I also address the debate around natural vs. synthetic thyroid hormones and dispel some myths about why “natural” isn’t necessarily better—what matters is finding the right tool to balance your metabolism.

Next week, in Part 2, we’ll talk about myths around Armour Thyroid, how to decide on the best thyroid medication for you, and whether you should consider treatment even if your labs are “normal.” Stay tuned!

If you found this episode insightful, please consider leaving a five-star review for the Beyond the Thyroid podcast. Your support helps others find this valuable resource. To learn more about Dr. Gibbs and her approach to hormone health, visit her website at www.danagibbsmd.com. Remember, this podcast is for educational purposes and should not replace personalized medical advice. Stay tuned for more episodes as we continue this journey together beyond the thyroid.