The Effect of the Thyroid Gland on Weight Control

By Jeffrey Rossini

The thyroid gland serves many functions. Weight gain has often been 'blamed' on a slow or sluggish thyroid. This article aims to describe the basic physiology, two of the many hormones and functions of these in relation to weight control, and ways in which an underactive (slow) thyroid gland can be helped by pharmaceuticals or natural remedies.

Basic physiology of the Thyroid.

The thyroid gland is situated below the Larynx and forward of the Trachea. It is composed of two lobes of connective tissue called the Isthmus. The thyroid is one of the largest endocrine glands. Being extremely vascular the thyroid gland appears redder than the surrounding tissue.

Thyroid Gland Functions.

The thyroid hormones include Triiodothyronine and Tetraiodothyronine (commonly called Thyroxine). The ratio of these hormones is 9:1, Tetraiodothyronine:Triiodothyronine.

Thyroid hormones affect most tissue in the human body. The bodys metabolism depends on an adequately functioning thyroid gland providing these thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones help in the metabolism of glucose, protein, and fats. In the same way as burning fuel in a fire, this metabolism leads to an increase in (body) temperature. An inadequate supply of these hormones causes the opposite effect of slowing the metabolism of glucose, protein, and fats effecting a decrease in body temperature.

Hyposecretion (low secretion) of the thyroid hormones has been shown to cause weight gain and apathy amongst other effects. So, it can be seen that some causes of the overweight can be attributed to 'slow' thyroid gland. Therefore the stimulation of the thyroid gland can effect weight loss.

Pharmaceuticals for the treatment of Hypothyroidism.

Levothyroxine: is the generic name for the synthetic form of thyroxine, a thyroid hormone replacement drug. This drug contains the synthetic form of Tetraiodothyronine. This drug replaces the lack of tetraiodothyronine rather than causing the thyroid gland to produce more. All drugs have some side effects. Side effects of Levothyroxine can include tremors, weight loss, alopecia, fever, fatigue, amongst others.

Liotrix: is the generic name for the synthetic form of the combination of Tetraiodothyronine and Triiodothyronine. This drug replaces the lack of these two hormones. Side effects of Liotrix can include fatigue, alopecia, increased blood pressure, dry skin, amongst others.

There are more drugs for the treatment of hypothyroidism.

Natural remedies for a healthy thyroid gland.

Bitters: is a group of herbs that has a stimulating effect on the body. Bitters have been shown in clinical trials to help with mild hypothyroidism.

Bladderwack: is an iodine rich seaweed. Iodine has been shown to help low thyroid hormone production.

Guglipid: is an extract from the Guggal tree. This extract can be useful when Triiodothyronine hormone is low. The guggal tree has been used for centuries for its health benefits.

Myrrh: is a tree resin. It has been shown to stimulate the thyroid.

Nori: is a seaweed. Nori has a high mineral content and contains Iodine. Iodine is essential for thyroid health.

Piper Longum: is the Indian Long Pepper. The pepper can help to increase thyroid hormone levels. It works by increasing the metabolic heat energy.

There are other natural remedies said to help thyroid function.

Overweight has many causes and Hypothyroidism is just one.

Jeffrey Rossini works in medicine. He has helped clients with body image and self esteem problems. More information can be found at http://www.my-health-answer.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jeffrey_Rossini