Fall 2020 Thyroid Hormones Stress

Thyroid, Hormones, and Stress, Oh My! Come to Discovery Health Healing Center for an informative talk about our approach to these everyday challenges. So many people I talk to are frustrated with their health and yes, their health care providers who don't believe their story. Hi, I'm Dr. Kelly Felmer. I work with patients every day to reverse disease and restore the body to its best version of itself. You can learn more about me and Discovery Health Healing Center at drkellyfelmer.com. I hope to see you at the Center!

The Interplay Between the Thyroid, Hormones, and Stress

The thyroid gland, hormones, and stress are interconnected in a complex relationship that significantly impacts overall health. Understanding this interplay is essential for recognizing how imbalances in one area can affect the others.

The Thyroid Gland and Hormones

Thyroid Function

• Thyroid Hormones: The thyroid gland produces two main hormones, thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism, energy production, and overall growth and development.
• Regulation: Thyroid function is regulated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland through the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH).

Hormonal Influence

• Metabolism: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolic rate and energy production.
• Growth and Development: They are essential for normal growth, brain development, and overall organ function.
• Interaction with Other Hormones: Thyroid hormones interact with other hormones, such as insulin, cortisol, and sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone), to maintain homeostasis.

Stress and Its Impact on Hormones

The Stress Response

• Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) Axis: Stress activates the HPA axis, leading to the release of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) from the hypothalamus, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) from the pituitary gland, and cortisol from the adrenal glands.
• Cortisol: Known as the "stress hormone," cortisol helps the body respond to stress by increasing blood sugar levels, suppressing the immune system, and aiding in metabolism.

Interplay Between Thyroid, Hormones, and Stress

Stress and Thyroid Function

1. Cortisol’s Impact on Thyroid Hormones:

   • Inhibition of TSH: Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can suppress the release of TSH from the pituitary gland, leading to reduced production of thyroid hormones.
   • Conversion of T4 to T3: High cortisol levels can impair the conversion of T4 to the active T3 hormone, resulting in lower T3 levels and symptoms of hypothyroidism.

2. Autoimmune Thyroid Conditions:

   • Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Chronic stress can trigger or exacerbate autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism.
   • Graves’ Disease: Stress may also play a role in the onset and progression of Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder causing hyperthyroidism.

Hormonal Imbalances and Thyroid Function

1. Sex Hormones:

   • Estrogen and Progesterone: Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels, particularly during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and menopause, can impact thyroid function. Estrogen can increase levels of thyroid-binding globulin (TBG), affecting the availability of active thyroid hormones.
   • Testosterone: Low testosterone levels in men can be associated with hypothyroidism.

2. Insulin:

   • Insulin Resistance: Thyroid dysfunction can contribute to insulin resistance and vice versa. Hypothyroidism can reduce glucose uptake by cells, leading to elevated blood sugar levels.

Managing the Interplay

Stress Management

1. Relaxation Techniques:

   • Meditation, Yoga, and Deep Breathing: Practices that help reduce stress and lower cortisol levels.
   • Mindfulness: Being present and mindful can reduce the impact of stress on the body.

2. Lifestyle Modifications:

   • Regular Exercise: Helps to regulate cortisol levels and improve overall hormonal balance.
   • Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients supports thyroid health and helps manage stress.

Thyroid Health

1. Regular Monitoring:

   • Thyroid Function Tests: Regular blood tests to monitor TSH, T4, and T3 levels.
   • Symptom Tracking: Keeping track of symptoms to detect any changes in thyroid function early.

2. Medication and Supplements:

   • Thyroid Hormone Replacement: For those with hypothyroidism, medication to replace missing thyroid hormones.
   • Nutritional Support: Supplements like selenium and iodine that support thyroid function, under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Hormonal Balance

1. Endocrine Support:

   • Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): For those with significant hormonal imbalances, BHRT can help restore hormonal levels.
   • Nutritional Support: Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals that support hormonal health, such as vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc.

2. Holistic Approach:

   • Integrative Therapies: Combining conventional and complementary therapies to address hormonal imbalances and thyroid function comprehensively.

Conclusion

The interplay between the thyroid, hormones, and stress is intricate and deeply interconnected. Chronic stress can significantly impact thyroid function, leading to hormonal imbalances and vice versa. Managing stress, monitoring thyroid health, and maintaining hormonal balance through lifestyle changes, medical interventions, and holistic approaches can help maintain overall well-being and prevent the adverse effects of these interconnections.