Thyroid Disorders and Glyconutrients
The thyroid gland is the biggest gland in the neck and is located at the base of the neck in front of the trachea. It has two sides and is shaped like a butterfly. The sole function of the thyroid is to make thyroid hormone. This hormone has an effect on nearly all tissues of the body where it increases cellular activity. The function of the thyroid therefore is to regulate the body's metabolism.
The thyroid gland makes, stores, and releases three primary hormones - T4 (thyroxine), T3 (triiodothyronine), and calcitonin. T3 and T4 control the rate of metabolism. Calcitonin regulates the calcium and phosphate levels in the blood. The thyroid gland is controlled by the pituitary gland which makes thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Most thyroid problems are related to either an underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism) thyroid ie producing either too much or too little hormones.
Hyperthyroidism increases the basal metabolic rate, causing an increased demand for food to support this metabolic activity. There are many types of hyperthyroidism with many causes, not all of which are known.
Hypothyroidism is most often caused by a disorder known as thyroiditis - an inflammation of the thyroid gland - also called Hashimoto's disease. Hypothyroidism can result from a diet that does not have enough iodine, and results in an undersecretion of thyroid hormones, resulting in a lower basal metabolic rate. There are two classifications of adult hypothyroidism, primary and secondary. Primary hypothyroidism comes from a disorder of the thyroid itself. Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by an inability to stimulate the thyroid. Both types can lead to very severe complications.
For all people not just those with medical conditions associated with the thyroid, glyconutrients form the basic cellular language of all cells. Cells require adequate amounts of glyconutrients to allow cells to communicate 'correctly'. These nutrients are known to improve the immune system function, organ function and improve basic body physiology. If cells cannot communicate correctly they cannot function correctly or stay healthy. Glyconutrients for cell communication are pivotal no matter what other supplements you decide to take, as they support the body to heal, repair, regenerate, regulate and protect itself.
Resources and Links on Thyroid Disorders and Glyconutrients
www.holistichealthtopics.com - valuable resource of information on thyroid and a variety of other conditions.www.tsh.org - extensive information on tyroid disorders including research and issues.
www.familyvillage.wisc.edu - useful support information on thyroid conditions.
www.vitamvas.tripod.com - Hypothyroidism and Memory
www.thyroid.about.com - for a range of resources on thyroid disorders.
www.virginiamason.com - information on treating thyroid disorders.
www.wrongdiagnosis.com - introduction to thyroid disorders.
www.healthcyclopedia.com - information on health conditions A-Z
www.diabetesmonitor.com - the relationship between diabetes and thyroid disorders.
www.mypharmacy.co.uk - Understanding Thyroid Disorders - A Family Doctor Publication in Association with the British Medical Association
Disclaimer: The information provided in this medical condition section is strictly educational and not intended as medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment of medical disorders, consult your health care professional.
Copyright 2005 Glyconutrients Reference - Last Updated May 2005
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