THE HORMONAL CONNECTION: HYPOTHYROIDISM CAUSES

Mineral deficiencies are common underappreciated causes of hypothyroidism. While people tend to associate the condition with an iodine deficiency, due to the widespread use of iodized salt most Americans are not lacking in this mineral. Other nutrients, though, may be in short supply. Two of the primary minerals involved in thyroid metabolism are selenium and zinc. A deficiency in either of these can prevent proper conversion of T4 to T3.

Stress and excessive refined carbohydrate intake are also major contributors to the condition. Refined carbohydrates push blood sugar levels higher and affect cortisol delivery, and stress has an impact on

cortisol delivery as well. When cortisol levels are too high, the thyroid can become overworked and exhausted.

Low-calorie diets can contribute to hypothyroidism as well, although they are not the most prevalent cause. Many individuals restrict their caloric intake to a dangerous degree. Eating too little or fasting excessively can lead to a slowing down of the metabolic rate and, thus, a decrease in the body's ability to burn fat and calories. Also important to consider are food allergies and a diet that includes too much caffeine.

Going beyond the issue of proper food intake, our digestive system itself has to be in proper working order for the thyroid gland to function correctly. Thyroid hormone remains inactive until it is broken apart by enzymes in the intestines. Factors that may cause a disruption in this process include repeated antibiotic therapy, a poor diet, and intestinal problems. If any of these cause a microflora imbalance, the result may be a decrease in the intestines' ability to reabsorb, or "reuptake," the active thyroid hormone.

Chemical and metal toxicity, from such sources as secondhand smoke or organic compounds, such as softeners found in plastics and food wrap, may result in a thyroid problem. Mercury from dental amalgam fillings and exposure to pesticides can be problematic for the thyroid as well. Even tap water, due to its fluoride and chlorine additives may affect thyroid function negatively. In addition, any exposure to radiation can harm the thyroid gland.

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