Many people don’t understand the importance of their thyroid hormone and thyroid health, but the hormone is essential in the growth, development and metabolic function of just about all of the organ systems and tissues of the body. We will discuss the importance of thyroid health.
The Importance of Thyroid Health
Functions of Thyroid Hormone
The following are a some of the essential functions of thyroid hormone:
Protein, Carbohydrate and Lipid Metabolism
The thyroid hormone plays a significant role in your metabolism of protein, carbohydrates and fats. With regards to protein, thyroid hormones stimulate the synthesis as well as the degradation of proteins. Therefore, a deficiency in thyroid hormone can affect protein synthesis.
In addition, thyroid hormone plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism. This type of hormone affects the synthesis, mobilization and degradation. Sever hypothyroidism typically results in an increased serum concentration of total cholesterol and atherogenic lipoproteins.
Brain Development
Brain development and function is another significant role the thyroid hormone plays a significant role in. Triiodothyronine (T3) is the active form of thyroid hormone. T3 controls the expression of genes involved in the following:
- myelination
- cell differentiation
- migration
- signaling
This is why a deficiency of thyroid hormone cause cause cognitive problems.
Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
T3 also plays a role in peripheral nerve regeneration. Schwann cells are in the peripheral nervouse system. These cells produce the myelin sheath around the axons of the neurons. The myelin sheath provides protection to the neuron, and plays a role in ever conduction.
Also, with peripheral nerve regeneration, it seems T3 assists with the formation of the myeline sheath, probably directly stimulating the Schwann cells.
Bone Health
Thyroid hormones are necessary for skeletal development and establishment of peak bone mass. T3 also regulates bone turnover and bone mineral density in adults. Normal euthyroid status is essential to maintain optimal bone strength.
Hypothyroidism can result in impaired bone formation and growth retardation. However, hyperthyroidism causes an acceleration in growth, advanced bone age and decreased bone mass.
Wound Healing
Wound healing is another aspect thyroid hormone plays a significant part in.
Someone with a hypothyroid condition might experience slower healing when they have a cutaneous wound.
These are just a few reasons for the importance of thyroid health. Contact us with the link below for more information!