Berkeley reports this as being investigated for lowering blood cholesterol, but makes no mention of weight loss. The only reference to thyroid is in the warning:
Quote:
Pregnant women and people with thyroid disorders, as well as those on medications such as calcium channel blockers, should not take guggulipid, nor should women with menstrual problems. Possible side effects include excessive menstrual bleeding. Digestive disorders, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, have also been reported.
One bad thing that I've noticed is a lot of supplements claim that they improve thyroid function and thereby increase weight loss, which is actually quite scary. Like MrsJim said, you should have your thyroid checked if you think there is a problem. It can be done by a simple blood test. You don't want to mess with your thyroid. While I know nothing about guggulipid, something that comes to mind is a warning against using kelp to improve thyroid for the following reason, which is from our supplement guide:
Quote:
Kelp in a weight loss supplement is supposed to provide iodine, which is claimed to stimulate the thyroid gland and possibly increase metabolism. The use of iodine to treat thyroid disorders should be under advisement of a physician. According to WebMd, "But excess supplementation of iodine like with health-food supplements can lead to an accelerated hypothyroid state. Although it is true that the thyroid uses iodine to make thyroid hormone, in excess amounts you will shut down and scar your thyroid gland. This character of iodine excess is used as treatment for hyperthyroidism. In a hyperthyroid patient, to quickly make them hypothyroid, excess iodine is frequently used. " Therefore, treating yourself with kelp or iodine supplements may have the opposite effect of what you hoped for!
It's always better to see a physician to determine if you have a physical reason for being overweight or problems losing. We may think that natural supplements can only be beneficial and/or harmless, but they can be quite dangerous and it's for a physician to recommend and monitor your usage, if you do take anything. The claims on the bottles do not have to be proven or substantiated, unless they claim to cure cancer or some equally bold medical claim. The manufacturers can tell you anything they want, so never go by what they say. Do research, looking towards reputable medical resources and never rely on what the manufacturer tells you. Their only goal is to make a sale.
MichelleRae , 05-24-2004 07:05 PM
Suzanne 3FC , 05-25-2004 06:30 AM
