Hi better12,

Your story is remarkably similar to mine and I've had similar questions.

I'm currently looking into mitochondrial issues and supplements. Hypothyroidism can lead to PN. Endocrine problems in general, too.

Low temps are a v. common symptom of hypoT. Do you get cold hands/feet? Is your core temp lower than 98.6F?

I've read that mitochondrial dysfunction can mimic hypoT. I was going to try the hypoT supplements but first I'd like to try mitochondrial because that's probably the root problem.

I'm already taking B12, but I'm looking at trying Acetyl L-Carnitine (rec'd on this board) and D-Ribose.

Your Mg idea is good. But absorption rates can be low, so topical is another option. If you haven't already, check out Dr. Carolyn Dean's book on Mg.

I've been taking Mg for months to deal with PN. I don't know if it's helped, but it's so important for other health issues, I don't plan to stop. It also has the power with long-term use to detoxify heavy metals in the brain.

My PN has got worse this year and seems to get a little worse whenever I lose weight. I've lost 30 lbs this year already, mostly by accident. PN gives me insomnia... I end up sleeping when I used to be eating... I miss meals and lose weight.

Keep in mind, too, that toxins in fat can get released into the bloodstream by weight loss. If you were once working in a toxic place that could become a factor. Toxins can get stored for years.

mrsD, could we please have a sticky thread on Testing? All the different kinds of PN-related tests, including comments on reliablility/interpretation, as you were noting in this thread?