Thyroid: Understanding The What and Why

The thyroid is an endocrine gland responsible for an enormous impact on the overall health of the body. This small, butterfly shaped gland is located at the base of the neck, just below your Adam’s apple and with an incredible impact on various body processes, it’s important to have a basic understanding of what thyroid is, how it works and why it is so important.

What is the Thyroid?

The thyroid is a gland located around the base of your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. It is responsible for producing two major hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones control the rate of metabolism and affect several bodily functions, such as body temperature, heart rate, and the production of proteins. An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can lead to fatigue, depression, muscle weakness and weight gain, while an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, can cause rapid weight loss, anxiety, and an increased heart rate.

How Does Thyroid Work?

The thyroid gland produces and secretes the hormones T3 and T4 into the bloodstream, which then travel throughout the body. Once the hormones enter the target organs, they work to control the rate of metabolism and affect several bodily functions.

The hormones T3 and T4 are produced by the thyroid in response to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain. When TSH levels rise, the thyroid secretes more hormones, and when TSH levels drop, the thyroid produces fewer hormones.

Why is Thyroid Important?

The thyroid plays an important role in regulating hormone levels in the body and controlling metabolism. Without the correct hormones, the body would not be able to properly digest food, convert energy and maintain body temperature. Furthermore, the hormones produced by the thyroid are necessary for normal growth and development.

In addition to its role in metabolism, the thyroid also helps regulate the cardiovascular system and control emotions by affecting levels of serotonin and dopamine. Low levels of thyroid hormones can affect the nervous system, causing depression, anxiety and difficulty concentrating.

Conclusion

The thyroid is an incredibly important gland in the human body and plays a major role in various bodily functions. It is responsible for producing the hormones T3 and T4, which help regulate metabolism, body temperature, cardiovascular system, growth and development and emotions. Keeping the thyroid healthy is essential for an individual’s overall health and wellbeing. If you think you may have an issue with your thyroid, speak to your doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.