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Coconut oil: Can it cure hypothyroidism?
By Mayo Clinic staffOriginal Article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/coconut-oil-thyroid/AN01367
- With Mayo Clinic endocrinologist
Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.
read biographyclose windowBiography of
Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.
Todd Nippoldt, M.D.
Dr. Todd Nippoldt is a board-certified specialist in internal medicine and endocrinology and metabolism. He has special expertise in the area of hormone disorders affecting the pituitary and adrenal glands as well as the testes and ovaries. He has been a member of the Mayo Clinic staff since 1988.
He's a consultant in the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Nutrition and works with patients who have disorders of the hormone-producing glands. Common disorders include diabetes, thyroid problems, osteoporosis and elevated cholesterol levels.
He's also involved in andrology, the study of male hormonal disorders, male infertility and male sexual dysfunction, and is an assistant professor of medicine at College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic.
Dr. Nippoldt, a St. Paul, Minn., native, has also contributed to "Mayo Clinic Health Letter," the "Mayo Clinic Family Health Book" and a Mayo Clinic CD-ROM. He's a fellow in the American College of Physicians and a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the American Society of Andrology, The Endocrine Society, The Pituitary Society and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.
"I have found that those patients who have gone to the Internet and obtained accurate medical information come to their appointment with me very well informed, and the discussions regarding the evaluation and management of their condition are very productive and satisfying," he says.
"The key, however, is obtaining accurate medical information. As a medical editor, I hope to be able to ensure that accurate, relevant and up-to-date information is available for patients and their families."
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Complications (1)
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Treatments and drugs (5)
- Coconut oil: Can it cure hypothyroidism?
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Alternative medicine (1)
- Coconut oil: Can it cure hypothyroidism?
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Question
Coconut oil: Can it cure hypothyroidism?
Is it really true that coconut oil can cure hypothyroidism?
Answer
from Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.
No. The misconception that coconut oil can cure underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) arose years ago, after publication of a book touting the beneficial effects of coconut oil. However, there is no evidence that coconut oil stimulates thyroid function.
If you have signs or symptoms of hypothyroidism — such as increased sensitivity to cold, unexplained weight gain or fatigue — consult your doctor. He or she can test your thyroid function and, if necessary, recommend appropriate treatment, which may include thyroid hormone therapy.
Next questionHypothyroidism: Should I take iodine supplements?
- Coconut oil. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Oct. 22, 2012.
- Nippoldt TB (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 31, 2012.
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