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Thyroid (Expert Forum)

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Might adding T3 reduce LDL cholesterol?

Answered by

Mark Lupo, M.D. - Thyroid Nodules, Thyroid Cancer, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, Thyroid Ultrasound

Thyroid & Endocrine Center of Florida Sarasota - FL

Questions in the Thyroid forum are answered by Dr. Mark Lupo. Topics covered include goiter, graves disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, hyperthyroid, hypothyroid, thyroid cancers, thyroiditis, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH).

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MedHelp Member's Question

Might adding T3 reduce LDL cholesterol?

by Creekside, Jul 18, 2007 12:00AM

Tags: cholesterol, thyroid, synthroid

  I am 57 and peri-menopausal, and have been on Synthroid 28 years, currently 88 mcg/day with TSH typically = 0.7.  I had gotten my LDL cholesterol down to 110 with diet and exercise.  While my hormones were fluctuatiing, my TSH plummeted to .37 and LDL shot up to 146, with no change in diet.
  Two months later, with more stringent diet but no Synthroid change, TSH was back to .7 and LDL was down to 126.  Total chol = 204; HDL = 63.  Free T4 = 1.4 (.8-1.8) and Free T3 = 274 (230-420).  Ferritin = 38 (10-232).
  Might adding some T3 help bring down my cholesterol?  I have many, but mild, lingering hypo symptoms.
Thank you.

Doctor's Answer

by Mark Lupo, M.D.

, Jul 20, 2007 12:00AM

The cholesterol is not likely linked to thyroid with a TSH in this range and adding T3 probably won't help the cholesterol but may be worth considering a small dose of cytomel (w/ a slight decrease in Synthroid) for the lingering hypo symptoms -- the results vary from person to person, but worth a try sometimes.

Member Comments (2)

by cosmicsoul, Jul 18, 2007 12:00AM

Iam curious what the DR here will say about this. But to me it seems unrelated to the thyroid - at least not directly related. Cholesterol is tricky and it has to do with steroid hormone production and fat absorbtion too - very complex - I think we cant just say that the thyroid causing it or T3 will help... usually hypothyroids have higher cholesterol - but not in all cases! There is a lot of stuff on the net on how to reduce cholesterol LDL and improve HDL - yes you already doing exercise and diet... But your body might be changing.... also some natural supplements proven well for reducing Cholesterol such as Red Yeast Rice, Niacin (I use te no flush kind), and Policosanol, CoQ10. Lots of juicing, veggies, fruits, lean protein, clean, filtered water, some whole grains, good rest and exercise should reduce your LDL and increase your HDL. I am no expert I just know what worked for me and my husband. Good luck!
Also, check out: www.drlam.com for lots of very good info!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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