All About the Thyroid

​The thyroid is an endocrine gland located in the front face of your neck and near your windpipe. It is shaped like a butterfly with two wings extending out. The main parts of the thyroid include the lobes and the thyroid isthmus.  The thyroid also has 4 tiny parathyroids glands. The thyroid is approximately 2 inches long and a healthy thyroid should not bulge out on your neck. 

​The thyroid's main function, just like every other gland, is to maintain homeostasis or balance in the body. Homeostasis for the thyroid comes in how energy is used or metabolism. This is a key regulatory function occurring in the body where the thyroid releases hormones or cellular messages throughout the body to get an organ to produce more of something or stop production. The thyroid is able to do this because of its dynamic role with other glands and systems. The thyroid surprisingly doesn't make hormones on its own. It is commanded by the pituitary gland which is commanded by the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus releases thyrotropin-releasing hormone to the pituitary gland, commanding the pituitary gland to produce thyroid-stimulating hormone to the thyroid. From there, the thyroid releases T4 thyroxine (an inactive hormone) to the bloodstream where it undergoes deiodination to become T3 triiodothyronine (an active hormone) where it will go on to regulate and affect the cells, organs, and systems of your body. Additionally, your thyroid also has 4 parathyroid glands that regulate calcium levels

 One of the most crucial minerals needed for proper thyroid function is iodine because thyroid hormones are made up of iodine. This is why your body needs a daily amount of iodine to ensure your thyroid is producing enough hormones for homeostasis. Foods with high iodine levels are seaweed, fish, dairy, and iodized salt.

Selenium is the shield of your thyroid by reducing inflammation and protecting it. Foods with high selenium levels are Brazil nuts, sunflower seeds, fish, and eggs.

Zinc and iron are crucial in hormone production and conversion in the thyroid. Foods with high zinc levels are shellfish, chicken, beef, legumes, and pumpkin seeds. Foods with high iron levels are red meats, lentils, beans, and spinach.

Vitamin A and D is important in thyroid function. Foods with high vitamin A levels are carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy greens, and liver. Foods with high vitamin D levels are fatty fish and supplements.

Maintaining a healthy diet is crucial to a healthy thyroid such as avoiding goitrogenic foods, processed foods, sugary foods, and caffeine/alcohol.

The thyroid is at the center of it all. The hub of creating vital hormones. Without this central gland, important hormones your body relies on will be diminished and functions like metabolism will cease to exist resulting in poor bodily function. You will have to rely on hormone replacement medication to make up for the loss of your thyroid.