Growing Bolder Community

This is hardly my first weight loss go-round, but I think I finally have it together enough to make it happen. To be honest, I can't believe I've already lost a few pounds. My thyroid is completely out of whack. Losing weight with a thyroid issue and diabetes is nearly impossible. But I'm lucky in some ways. I never allowed myself to become completely sedentary and I fought my weight gain to a...

I started considering bariatric surgery - lap band, stomach stapling, gastric bypass, whatever - about a year ago when it looked like nothing would ever change. I was diagnosed with diabetes about 10 years ago and while I drastically changed my diet, it has only gotten worse over the years until now it's incredibly hard to control. Several doctors have suggested surgery as my best option, but is...

I have been successfully dieting now for nearly a full month. If you've tried and failed to diet as many times as I have, you know how hard that is. Since I need to lose more than a hundred pounds, it's a long, discouraging road. Here's why I think I will succeed.My theory is that diets fail due to lack of preparedness. It's working this time because I'm prepared. When I get hungry - and, frankly,...

Dear Pharmacist,I am constantly fatigued, my hair is thinning, and I am gaining weight. My doctor says that I have hypothyroidism and prescribed Synthroid. Can you give me more information about thyroid medications and natural ways to help myself? --G.A. Albany, New YorkDear G.A., Approximately 12 million Americans have hypothyroidism. You are lucky if your major symptoms are fatigue, hair loss...

Had a thyroidectomy in 07 and have been on synthroid. I would like to knowif there is any natural supplements I can take to boost my energy levelThere are other symptoms but the lack of energy is major for me.Any and all input will be appreciated since I want to get back to feeling ambitious again! Thanks.

Dear Pharmacist,You mentioned “spirulina” in a recent column as a supplement to help boost thyroid hormone. I’ve never heard of this, is it a vitamin? What else is it good for? --T.E. Chicago, Illinois Dear T.E.,Spirulina is supercool, and it’s a superfood. It’s actually algae that grows in our oceans, springs and lakes. If you viewed it with a microscope you would see beautiful...