Stress And Hyperthyroidism: A Relationship You Should Be Aware Of

Stress and hyperthyroidism, or low metabolism, have one thing in common that we should be aware of. As we already know, diseases related to the thyroid gland (formerly called the thyroid gland) are quite common . But what is not as well known is the possibility that common factors such as stress create a change in the type of hormones produced by the thyroid gland.

In this article we will talk more about the relationship between stress and hyperthyroidism.

How are stress and hyperthyroidism linked?

Stress and hyperthyroidism are related through our adrenal glands . To better understand this link, we will take a closer look at the stress mechanism.

Stress and the immune system

Stress can only change the function of the thyroid gland if it is a matter of chronic stress. Chronic means that we have outbreaks of stress ranging from three months to a year . This includes nervousness, agitation and psychological anxiety.

• When this happens, the hypothalamus and pituitary gland will first be stimulated .
• These two parts of the brain stimulate the adrenal glands .
• Then the following happens: Our immune system not only becomes weaker, it also changes .
• Cytokines and inflammatory processes occur. This means that our own immune system attacks us because it receives a threat. It does not know where the threat comes from and reacts in the worst possible way: it attacks itself .

Stress and hyperthyroidism

What often happens is that the thyroid gland also attacks our immune system.

• In this case, we are talking about a specific clinical condition: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or autoimmune hypothyroidism.
• Likewise, we must not forget that stress slows down the pace of some individuals .
• This does not happen in all cases, which is important to know.

While some people lose weight when they experience stress, the opposite happens in other people . They put on weight because the thyroid gland slows down and the hormone levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) are reduced.

Stress and hypothyroidism: what can we do to avoid both disorders?

Change in thyroid function is a condition related to several factors. One of them is stress, as we already know.

In light of this, how can we avoid hypothyroidism associated with stress ?

Here are some strategies:

Pay attention to your diet

In addition to a balanced diet, it is important that you do not skip meals. For example, if you do not eat breakfast or lunch, your metabolism may change.

In addition, you should control your intake of caffeine, sugar, alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, chocolate etc . These are foods that often intensify stress.

In addition, experts recommend including the following vitamins and minerals in your diet:

• Selenium
• Sodium
• Zinc
• Iron
• Copper
• Vitamins A, B, C and E.

Sleep between 7 and 9 hours

As we all know, stress affects sleep quality. At the same time, poor night’s sleep affects both your health and your metabolism. Therefore, we need to change routines to be able to rest better:

• You need to have set times: plan meals and bedtimes at the same time each day.
• Do not eat later than 2 hours before bedtime.
• In the afternoon, you should pay attention to slowing down . It may be difficult at first, but both body and mind should relax when you get home in the afternoon. This is important.
• Two hours before bedtime, you should put away your computer and mobile phone.

Have control over your emotions

We all know that it is not easy to control emotions. But it is wise to prioritize it a little more. Here are some key points to make it happen:

• Do not postpone until tomorrow what bothers you today.
• Stress and hyperthyroidism are linked. Confront your small problems before they become big problems.

• Focus on the present. Instead of worrying about what might happen tomorrow, you can follow a simple strategy: What can I do to solve this problem today?
• Try to get an emotional outlet : talk to people you trust about what is bothering you. Write a diary and exercise. In other words, get rid of some of the anxiety every day.

Mindfullness

Mindfulness, or mindful presence, is a meditation technique and a way of connecting body and mind.

• It is recommended to practice mindfulness for at least one hour every day. Remember that this practice also extends to your diet and other aspects of your life.
• It is simply about being more present and enjoying everything you do. It is also about listening to oneself and living life more slowly and more responsibly.

Since stress and hyperthyroidism are linked, you may want to use these strategies to take better care of yourself.