Thyroid Function

The Thyroid Directly Supports the Following Systems:

Bone metabolism
Immune System
Brain/Nervous System
Endocrine System (adrenal glands, ovaries, testes)
Gastrointestinal function
Liver and gallbladder
Growth/Sex hormones
Fat Burning
Insulin and Glucose Metabolism
Healthy cholesterol levels
Proper stomach acid

Thyroid “Cross-Talk”

The thyroid relies upon other organs and systems just as these systems rely upon it. We call this “cross talk” between the systems. “Cross Talk” happens between the following systems:

Thyroid and Immune System
Thyroid and Gut
Thyroid and Brain
Thyroid and Endocrine System

One affects the other!

Thyroid Function Basics

The Hypothalamus sends a signal to the pituitary gland via TRH. The Pituitary gland sends a signal to the Thyroid via TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). TSH causes enzyme TPO to stimulate release of T4 (93%) and T3 (7%). These hormones ride the “taxi cab”- thyroid binding globulin (TBG).

Thyroid Hormone Conversion

In the liver 60% of T4 is converted to T3. Poor liver function will cause poor T4 to T3 conversion. 20% of T4 is sent to the gut to be converted to T3. If you have poor gut flora it will cause poor conversion of T4 to T3. Also, 20% of T4 is sent to peripheral cells for conversion to T3 using 5’diodianaze enzyme. A small percentage of T4 goes to Reverse T3.

Schedule your free thyroid consultation with Dr. Mark Scott at Total Health Center Virginia Beach today! We look forward to helping you feel better.