Free Community Wellness Series Launches October 3

Are you battling with unexplained weight gain? Constantly fatigued, depressed, or having trouble concentrating? Do your muscles continually cramp? Or do you suffer from dry skin?

Any of these may be symptoms of hypothyroidism — a condition characterized by abnormally low thyroid hormone production.

“Hypothyroidism is more prevalent than commonly thought,” according to Cody Foss, owner of The Fitness Loft of Newtown.

Mild hypothyroidism may have no obvious signs or symptoms but as it worsens symptoms can affect the entire body. Left untreated, hypothyroidism can cause a number of health problems such as obesity, joint pain, infertility, and heart disease.

Luckily, hypothyroidism is reasonably easy to diagnose and treat.

The public is invited to learn more, October 3, at a free 10:30 am talk at The Fitness Loft, 3 Simms Lane, for a comprehensive lecture presented by Dr Alice Bell. She will be discussing hypothyroidism, its signs and symptoms, as well as reviewing current treatment options.

According to Mr Foss, the average woman from 25 to 55 years of age will gain 20 pounds over this time.

“While there are multiple factors, an ineffective thyroid can be a major reason,” he added.

Dr Bell has a master’s degree in human nutrition in addition to a doctorate in naturopathic medicine. She is an adjunct professor at the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine where she oversees laboratory procedures in the clinic.

Her experience includes practicing and teaching Sivanada yoga (and meditation), holistic health counseling, and as an anatomy and physiology adjunct professor at Fairfield University.

Other free upcoming talks at the fitness loft are scheduled for October 31, on low-back conditions.

“It’s estimated that 85 percent of people in the United States will experience back pain at some time of their lifetime,” Mr Foss said. “Many of these occurrences can be prevented with the right exercises and a better awareness of how the spine works in conjunction with the muscles.”

He is also planning a free lecture November 21 on ACL injury prevention.

“With an alarming amount of ACL injuries still occurring in female athletes every parent, coach, and athlete has to inform themselves about what is contributing to this trend, and what can be done to prevent it,” Mr Foss said. “This will be an interactive workshop where exercises will be shown.”

Anyone interested in attending these free community wellness workshops can call 304-1400 to reserve a spot, or visit thefitnessloft.org for details.