Count on coconut to help hypothyroidism

Q. Can coconut counter hypothyroidism?
I started eating two macaroons daily to control diarrhea after finding this remedy in your column. I didn't expect any effect on my thyroid. I'd been told my thyroid condition would worsen with time.
The last time I was tested, though, my levels had improved so dramatically that my doctor cut my dose of thyroid medicine in half. This was several months after starting the macaroons. He will repeat the test in two months.
I wondered if you've heard anything from your readers about this possible benefit. This is the only thing in my diet that has changed. It would be wonderful if this delicious remedy could help not only digestive problems, but hypothyroidism too.
A. A popular article a few years ago started a buzz about coconut oil. Despite rumors that coconut might be helpful for hypothyroidism, we have not seen any controlled trials to demonstrate its effectiveness.
Thyroid function may fluctuate naturally, so your improvement might be coincidental. We would surely like to hear if your condition continues to improve.
Q. My husband gets severe cramps in his left leg. The pain goes from the calf to the top of his leg.
I get so scared when this happens. Are there any remedies to stop these horrible cramps?
A. Many remedies can help stop leg cramps at times. Some readers find that a teaspoon of yellow mustard stops a muscle cramp quickly. Others prefer 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water.
Another quick technique for easing the cramp is to stretch the muscle. Regular stretching before bed may prevent cramps. Putting a bar of soap under the bottom sheet, near the legs, is also said to prevent leg cramps. No one knows just why.
We are sending you our Guide to Leg Pain, with more suggestions on preventing and treating this condition. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $3 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. RLS-5, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.
Although leg cramps are painful, you don't need to get scared. They are not life-threatening.
Q. You told a reader that fennel tastes like licorice but has none of the dangers. I was not aware that licorice had any dangers. I read years ago that it's good for people with high blood pressure. What's the problem?
A. Licorice-root tea and candy made from real licorice may have medicinal properties. Licorice has been used traditionally to ease symptoms of cough, sore throat and indigestion.
But too much of this herb can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure, lowered sex drive or potassium loss. Pregnant women, people with high blood pressure and those with kidney problems should stay away from genuine licorice.
Q. I read your column about NOT using Vicks inside the nose and assumed Mentholatum was OK to use. But the microscopic print on the side of the jar says not to use it in the nostrils.
I have used Mentholatum to relieve dryness in my nose off and on my whole life. Have I done myself much harm?
A. Mentholatum, like Vicks VapoRub, has a petrolatum base. When there is petroleum jelly in the nose, small quantities can be inhaled into the lungs. With no way to get it out of the lungs, it may eventually build up and cause cough and shortness of breath.
XIn their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of King Features Syndicate, 888 Seventh Ave., New York, NY 10019, or e-mail them at pharmacy@mindspring.com or via their Web site: www.peoplespharmacy.org.
& copy; 2005 King Features Syndicate Inc.