The thyroid gland is pivotal in the metabolism of the organism. Hypothyroidism, or low activity of the thyroid, produces a sluggish metabolic rate which is characterised by the inability to correctly use energy to produce movement or heat. Treating hypothyroidism is a multistep process that requires a number of key steps to be addressed. Firstly, selenium protects the thyroid from oxidative stress and so optimal selenium intake is required for normal metabolic rate. Zinc is required for the conversion of the less active T4 version of thyroid hormone to the more active T3 version. Tyrosine is also a consideration because thyroid hormones are synthesised from tyrosine. Studies also show that low intakes and blood levels of vitamin D are also associated with hypothyroidism. As inflammation slows the conversion of T4 to T3, foods and environmental factors that increase inflammatory conditions, such as consuming the Western diet, can significantly affect the thyroid metabolism of the individual.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, protect Yourself
RdB
