Thyroid gland – an important health regulator
The thyroid plays a vital role in overall health. It produces hormones that regulate the body’s energy use and influence nearly every organ. Thyroid dysfunction can lead to a range of symptoms, from chronic fatigue to digestive issues. Diet is one of the most important factors influencing thyroid function.
How does the thyroid work?
The thyroid gland, located at the front of the neck and covering the trachea, produces two main hormones, T3 and T4, whose synthesis requires iodine. These hormones are important regulators of metabolism, influencing breathing, heart rate, brain activity, motor skills, sleep, and even the digestive system and the functioning of other glands.
Hormone deficiency can slow metabolism by up to 40%, leading to lethargy and weight gain.
Too much speeds up the process by 60-100%, which also creates problems.
The most common disease is hypothyroidism, often associated with Hashimoto’s syndrome.
The three biggest enemies: foods that the thyroid “cannot tolerate.”
1. Gluten – the hidden saboteur
Gluten refers to all the proteins found in wheat, barley, and rye. It gives dough its elasticity, but:
It contains the protein gliadin, which often causes thyroid problems.
