Thank you both so much for your input. Fortunately I'm starting to feel a little better. Just took time, I guess.

Fujiwara, my doctor prefers Armour Thyroid because it is a totally natural substance. The difference between Armour and Synthroid is more or less like the difference between food and a drug. You are right though: Getting the T3 molecule into my cells is the big challenge. I've talked to my doctor about changing types of thyroid supplement and she is absolutely opposed to it. She makes a formula of herbs, etc. which I take to help my body accept the thyroid.

Lowcarbbarb, Your story is very encouraging to me. It sounds like you are really doing the right things for your body. And I especially admire that you measure your food. I did lots of that when I used to be in Weight Watchers (years ago.) Now I'm not so patient. Actually the diet I follow is the Plate of Seven, which my doctor put me on about 20 years ago. It is also called The Rainbow Diet, I think. Every now and then I see a version of it in some of the health books I read. It consists of 5 types of vegetables, animal protein, whole grain and moderate amounts of healthy fats. It gets a little boring, so I'm not perfect; but I definitely feel better when I stick pretty closely to that way of eating.

I haven't been feeling well enough to do much exercising yet, but I have an excellent video that includes weight resistance, aerobics, and stretching. I've used it a few times. There is no question that exercise is key to weight loss as well as improved health.

It is so true that you have to eat whole, natural foods. I've been going to our local farmers market (certified organic) to buy vegetables and we have a store not too far away that sells additive-free, free range beef.

Last night I made a big mistake and had pasta from Pasta Pronto. I won't do that again, at least not for a long time (until I forget, probably.) I had a lot of trouble sleeping, and now I am too tired for much of anything. Back to the organic vegetables, brown rice and clean meat!