Thyroid and Metabolism- There’s a Connection
By Andrew Deschanes

Thyroid and Metabolism- There’s a Connection

The thyroid is a small butterfly shaped gland at the base of the neck, just below the Adams apple and is at the center of the body’s hormonal system.  The body’s metabolism is mainly controlled by the thyroid and the hormones it releases.  The metabolism of the body can become seriously affected when the thyroid begins to malfunction or a disease affects its processes.  Weight gain or loss is one of the biggest changes that can occur as a result of a thyroid problem.  People trying to loose weight do not take into account how well their metabolism is functioning with regards to their thyroid.  Cutting calories works for some, but for those with a malfunctioning thyroid cutting calories can do more damage then good. 

Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism are two forms of thyroid disorders that can have profound affects on a person’s metabolism.

When the thyroid does not release adequate amounts of the thyroid hormone is when Hypothyroidism occurs.  An under-active thyroid can make attaining any sort of weight loss nearly impossible, because the metabolism slows, causing fatigue, weakness and rapid weight gain

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid releases too much thyroid hormone, causing the metabolism to rise drastically.  This might sound good to a person trying to loose weight.  The truth is both forms of thyroid dysfunction are extremely dangerous and must be treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Only your doctor can determine which form of the disease may be affecting you.

 

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