Dear Dr. Cutler,

I read your article “For A Deeper Cleanse… Try This” about fasting and I want to fast for all of the reasons you stated. However, I suffer from hypothyroidism and take Synthroid® everyday. Is it safe to do a liquid or water fast under this condition? Would it be safe to stop this medication during a fast? —Kathy L.

Dear Kathy,

The liquid fast (where you drink only water for an average of three to 10 days) will only improve your thyroid condition, not hurt it. Here are some of the effects you can expect with a water fast:

• Weight loss with little or no hunger.
• Detoxification, breaking down fat reserves and mobilizing stored toxins to be eliminated.
• Digestive system is allowed to rest.
• Resolve inflammatory processes, including painful arthritic conditions.
• Relief from allergic reactions, such as asthma and hay fever.
• Relief from abnormal fluid accumulations such as leg edema.
• Helps restore blood pressure to healthy levels.
• Clearer skin, and revitalized taste buds.
• And much more…

All the while, you are preparing yourself and your stomach for a lifestyle change to whole, natural foods.

However, keep taking your thyroid replacement medication. It has a gradual effect on metabolism. Only reduce the amount when you are feeling you need less, but please don’t forget to follow-up with a TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) level test with your doctor.

For more questions and answers like this one, check out my monthly newsletter, Easy Health Options™, by visiting www.easyhealthoptions.com.

All the best!
Michael Cutler, M.D.