Everyone has a different rate of metabolism, and an individual’s metabolism also changes over time. But if you suspect that you might have a real metabolic problem, you might be experiencing hypothyroidism, or low-functioning thyroid. Your symptoms could include: Fatigue, unexplained weight gain, muscle weakness, muscle aches and pains, hair loss, depression (um, not to split hairs or anything, but if I were experiencing all these symptoms, depression seems inevitable).
Hypothyroidism can be caused by a number of factors, most significantly autoimmune diseases, but you could also be triggering it with 2 very common, everyday chemicals–are you getting too much of these?
1. Iodine: in some parts of the world, iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism–but in the U.S., where people can plenty of iodized salt, the exact OPPOSITE can occur. Too much iodine can cause thyroid malfunction just as much as too little iodine. 
2. Fluoride: Did you know this all-too-common chemical has been linked to hypothyroidism (and ulcers, reduced IQ, and infertility, to boot)? 97% of western Europe has banned fluoridation of public water, and UNICEF is actually removing fluoride from water supplies in developing nations. The U.S. is the only developed nation continuing to fluoridate its water, adding the chemical to over 70% of its water supplies. Unfortunately, I live in New York City, which also fluoridates its water. While I choose not to avoid tap water (since I can’t condone constant bottled water drinking for whole other host of reasons), I do use fluoride-free toothpaste from Desert Essence. It’s also parabens-free, phthalates-free, petroleum-free, biodegradable and 100% vegan.
Photo: Desertessence.com
