9 factors that decrease thyroid gland function

The thyroid gland  is located in the throat, has the shape of a butterfly and is responsible for the thermoregulation of the body and metabolic processes: it determines what your temperature will be, whether your appetite will increase or decrease, and how you will spend energy.

Problems with thyroid function are a common thing nowadays.

The first and key factor is the environment (air, plastic, water, hormones in the food, low-quality materials, etc.).

The second factor is immobility, lack of exercising.

We already talked about what important roles thyroid gland plays in our body.  So now let’s understand the factors that have negative affect on it.

The key factors that influence thyroid gland function:

🔹1. Problems with microflora and digestion in general.

Thyroid hormones are deactivated by the liver, and then sent to the intestines with bile. Most of them are reabsorbed and reused, so poor digestion is a serious blow to the thyroid gland.

🔸2. Stress.

Stress can lead to both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. The mechanisms are different: cortisol reduces the levels of T3 and T4, with chronic stress, the conversion of T4 to T3 in the kidneys and liver is disrupted.

🔹3. Inflammatory processes.

High levels of c-reactive protein and other markers of chronic inflammation are clearly correlated with reduced production of both TSH, TRH, and T3. During inflammation, cytokines are produced that inhibit the conversion of T4 to T3.

🔸4. Reduced leptin levels or leptin resistance.

Leptin low level is a consequence of overeating. This hormone clearly indicates that the food was not right and the person ate too much.

Exercise, interval fasting, and/or significant calorie restriction regulate leptin levels.

🔹5. Environmental toxins.

We live in a world of plastic and artificial hormones that get into drinking water, and it’s hard to do anything about this aspect.

🔸6. Lack of iodine.

One of the most common causes of hypothyroidism. But an overabundance of iodine is also a problem that affects the thyroid gland.

🔹7. Lack of selenium.

Selenium is involved in the conversion of T4 to T3. It is a stimulator of thyroid function and at the same time its defender. Selenium deficiency should not be allowed. But selenium accelerates the removal of chromium, this should be monitored.

🔸8. Lack of iron.

There is such an enzyme of the thyroid gland-peroxidase. In order for it to perform its functions correctly, you need a sufficient amount of iron.

🔹9. Vitamin A deficiency.

There is a correlation between vitamin A deficiency and thyroid dysfunction. Retinol (Vitamin A) – is responsible for protein biosynthesis. Vitamin group ” A ” has a positive effect on the immune system, improves the condition of the mucous membrane, bones and teeth. Retinol strengthens nails and hair, relieves puffiness and sagging skin, has a good effect on vision.