The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of our neck. Although small in size, the body’s energy production, metabolism (the process of digesting food into energy), heart rate, and body temperature are all controlled by the hormones T3 (Triiodothyronine) and T4 (Thyroxine) released by the thyroid. When the production of these hormones increases excessively (Hyperthyroidism) or decreases severely (Hypothyroidism), the body’s natural rhythm is disrupted. Here are the 5 main scientific reasons behind this problem that affects millions of people today:
Autoimmune Diseases: The most important scientific reason for thyroid disorders is autoimmune conditions. Our immune system starts attacking its own thyroid gland due to false messages, seeing it as an enemy. Examples include Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, which causes an underactive thyroid, and Graves’ Disease, which causes an overactive thyroid.
Iodine Imbalance: Iodine is a trace element that the body needs to produce thyroid hormones. When the amount of iodine in our diet is severely reduced, the gland is unable to produce the hormone, which causes a goiter and hypothyroidism. Conversely, excess iodine can also lead to hormonal changes.
Genetics: If your mother, sisters, or close relatives have thyroid hormone changes in your family, the next generation is 60 to 80 percent more likely to have them. Thyroid diseases tend to appear more quickly in people with certain genetic makeup as they age or when other physical changes occur.
Stress & Hormonal Shifts: In people with chronic stress, the body releases a large amount of the hormone cortisol. This cortisol inhibits the function of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the brain. In addition, estrogen hormone changes associated with pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause in women can also affect thyroid function.
Thyroiditis & Nodules: Certain types of viral infections can cause sudden severe swelling and inflammation of the thyroid gland (Thyroiditis). This causes the hormones stored in the cells to be released into the bloodstream, temporarily causing hyperthyroidism. Along with this, small tumors (Thyroid Nodules) that form in the gland can also cause hormonal changes.
