The thyroid is an important endocrine gland found in the shape of a butterfly at the front of our neck. This gland produces the hormones T3 and T4, which control the metabolism of the body, which converts food into energy. The condition in which the production of thyroid hormone decreases is called hypothyroidism, and the condition in which the hormone increases is called hyperthyroidism. The most common of these is hypothyroidism, which causes weight gain. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind thyroid dysfunction:
Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis – Autoimmune Disease: The most important scientific reason for hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disease. Our body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own thyroid gland due to faulty signals. As a result, thyroid cells are damaged and hormone production is significantly reduced.
Iodine Imbalance: Iodine is essential for the body to produce thyroid hormones. When the amount of iodine in the diet is too low, the thyroid gland is unable to produce the hormone, which causes a large swelling in the neck (Goiter). On the other hand, excessive iodine in the body can also cause thyroid function to stop suddenly.
Chronic Stress & Adrenal Fatigue: Chronic stress increases the amount of cortisol in the body. High cortisol levels can interfere with the function of the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) hormone released by the pituitary gland in the brain. This slows down the process of the liver converting T4 hormone into the active T3 hormone and leads to thyroid problems.
Genetics & Family History: Heredity plays a major role in the occurrence of thyroid diseases. If the mother or other close relatives in the family have thyroid hormone abnormalities, the next generation of individuals is more likely to develop thyroid disorders at a very young age due to genetic reasons.
Nutritional Deficiency: In addition to iodine, selenium, zinc, vitamin D, and iron are essential for the production of thyroid hormones. Due to today’s junk food culture, the lack of these nutrients in the body can affect thyroid function. In addition, severe estrogen fluctuations that occur during pregnancy and menopause in women can also cause thyroid disorders.