Understanding thyroid health: Are you aware of the hormones that affect your well-being?July 26, 2024
For many women, a significant portion of life is spent battling the effects of hormonal imbalances. This is not just limited to the well-known drop in hormones during menopause but encompasses a broader spectrum of hormonal changes, including the decline in progesterone, testosterone, and various forms of estrogen. These changes can lead to feelings of anger, depression, and a general sense of unease, affecting both physical and emotional health.
The silent drop: Incidence of hypothyroidism Thyroid health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet it often goes unnoticed until symptoms become severe. Thyroid function declines in both men and women, though at different rates. Interestingly, men experience a faster decline, which is why they often appear older than women of the same age. For instance, an 80-year-old woman may appear more youthful and healthy compared to an 80-year-old man, primarily due to the slower decline in thyroid levels in women. To increase lifespan and maintain health, it's essential to monitor thyroid hormone levels closely. "Thyroid drives both motion and emotion," says Dr Satvinder Singh (pix), a leading expert in functional medicine. He spoke on the management of subclinical hypothyroidism at the Association of Integrative Medicine Malaysia (AIMM)’s 5th International Integrative Medicine Conference 2024, themed "Healthspan - The Science and Art of Wellbeing." Identifying hypothyroidism: Early signs and symptoms One of the most observable signs of hypothyroidism is a low basal body temperature upon waking up in the morning. Research indicates that 12.5% of women aged 35 to 60, and 15% to 20% of women over the age of 60, are affected by subclinical hypothyroidism. By the age of 65, the prevalence increases to 17% in women, compared to 9% in men. Dr Satvinder suggests a simple self-check for hypothyroidism: "If your hands and feet are cold, your thyroid levels might be below the optimal range. A thyroid level of 3.8 indicates cold hands and feet, while a level of 3.3 usually means either the hands or feet are cold. This can be a sign that your thyroid is not functioning properly." Understanding thyroid hormones The thyroid gland plays a pivotal role in regulating metabolism and energy levels through the production of hormones. Thyroid hormones are manufactured by the follicular cells and stored in colloid vesicles. The pituitary gland releases Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), which stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 (Triiodothyronine) and T4 (Thyroxine). These hormones are critical for maintaining energy levels, mood, and overall health. Calcitonin, another hormone produced by the thyroid, helps regulate calcium levels in the blood, which is crucial for bone health. The balance and production of these hormones are maintained by a complex interaction between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and thyroid. The conversion process: T4 to T3 Most of the thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland is in the form of T4. However, T4 is largely inactive until it is converted into T3, the active form, in the liver and other tissues. In fact, 80% of T3 is produced outside the thyroid gland, primarily in the liver. This conversion process is essential for maintaining proper metabolic function and energy levels. Dr Satvinder explains, "T3 is vital because it acts on nucleotide receptors to regulate gene expression and cellular protein synthesis. Without sufficient T3, the body cannot function optimally, leading to symptoms of thyroid disease." Recognizing the symptoms of thyroid disease Thyroid disease can manifest in various ways, depending on whether the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism). Hypothyroidism is characterized by fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin and hair, hair loss, constipation, poor concentration, depression, memory impairment, muscle cramps, and irregular menstrual periods. Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, presents with symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, heat intolerance, increased sweating, anxiety, irritability, insomnia, muscle weakness, and palpitations. "Thyroid health is essential for building and maintaining muscle mass," notes Dr Satvinder. "In cases of suboptimal thyroid function, individuals often have excess fat and reduced muscle mass, which further impairs the conversion of T4 to T3. This creates a vicious cycle where low thyroid function leads to muscle loss, which in turn exacerbates thyroid dysfunction." The role of nutritional deficiencies and stress Several factors can contribute to thyroid dysfunction, including nutritional deficiencies, stress, and autoimmune conditions. Lack of sufficient iodine, zinc, and selenium can impair the thyroid's ability to produce hormones. Additionally, chronic stress can increase the conversion of T3 to its inactive form, rT3, reducing the amount of active thyroid hormone available for the body to use. Autoimmune thyroiditis, such as Hashimoto's disease, is another common cause of hypothyroidism. In this condition, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to reduced hormone production. Dr Satvinder emphasizes the importance of proper nutrition in managing thyroid health: "Many people focus on iodine when thinking about thyroid health, but iron is also crucial. In Malaysia, 85% of women are iron deficient, and 75% are deficient in vitamin D3. Low vitamin D3 levels are associated with depression, particularly in women under 50." Managing thyroid conditions: A functional medicine approach When managing thyroid conditions, it's essential to first identify the underlying cause, whether it's an autoimmune disorder, nutritional deficiency, or another factor. Dr. Singh advocates for a holistic approach to thyroid management, which includes addressing dietary and lifestyle factors. For those with high thyroid antibodies, Dr Satvinder recommends considering omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, a gluten-free diet, and addressing potential gut issues or heavy metal toxicity. He also suggests that low-dose dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and cortisol may be beneficial in some cases. "Iodine deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies in Malaysia, second only to vitamin D," says Dr Satvinder. "While iodized salt is the most common source, its bioavailability is low. Iodine supplements, seaweeds, and certain seafoods can be excellent sources of this essential nutrient." The connection between thyroid health and mood Subclinical hypothyroidism, which often goes undiagnosed, can be associated with mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Some studies have shown that the prevalence of these mood disorders is 2.3 times higher in individuals with subclinical hypothyroidism compared to those with normal thyroid function. "The relationship between thyroid health and mental health cannot be overstated," says Dr Satvinder. "Poorly managed thyroid function can lead to significant mood disturbances, which in turn can further exacerbate thyroid dysfunction. It's a vicious cycle that needs to be addressed with a comprehensive treatment plan." Moving forward: The importance of thyroid health awareness Thyroid health is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being. By understanding the signs and symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their health and improve their quality of life. Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels, along with a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, can help prevent the onset of thyroid disease and its associated complications. Awareness and early intervention are key to maintaining thyroid health. By addressing the root causes of thyroid dysfunction and taking a holistic approach to treatment, we can help individuals lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. |
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