What Is The Link Between Stress And Hyperthyroidism?

It is important that we all know the link between stress and hyperthyroidism. Thyroid dysfunction is quite common. But few people are aware that certain factors, such as stress, affect the production of thyroid hormones.

In today’s article we present in detail the link between stress and hyperthyroidism.

The link between stress and hyperthyroidism

The link between stress and hyperthyroidism is related to the adrenal glands. To understand what this is about, it is important to find out exactly what the mechanism of stress is.

Stress and the immune system

Even if it seems hard to believe, chronic stress can alter the functioning of the thyroid gland. You are considered to be suffering from chronic stress when you experience episodes of stress that last from three months to a year. We are talking here about nervousness and agitation, which causes a state of mental illness.

• In these situations, stress stimulates the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. 
• In turn, these two parts of the brain stimulate the adrenal glands.
• As a result, the immune system is weakened and even changes. 
• Thus, cytokines and inflammatory processes occur. This means that our own immune system attacks our body because it perceives a threat. Not knowing where this is coming from, he reacts in the most harmful way, by attacking the body he should be defending.

Stress and hyperthyroidism

One thing that often happens is that the thyroid gland itself attacks the immune system.

• In this case, it is a specific condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or autoimmune hypothyroidism.
• At the same time, in some people, stress slows down the thyroid gland. 
• Of course, this is not the case in all cases, so it is worth explaining the situation in more detail.

The link between stress and hyperthyroidism: how can we combat both?

Changes in the functioning of the thyroid gland are associated with several factors. One of them is, as I found out, stress. That being said, how can we prevent hyperthyroidism associated with stress? 

Well, you can find some useful strategies in the following:

food

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

At the same time, you need to reduce your consumption of caffeine, sugar, alcoholic beverages, sour juices, chocolate, etc. These foods tend to exacerbate stress.

In addition, experts recommend adding the following vitamins and minerals to your diet:

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

Sleep between 7 and 9 hours

As we well know, stress affects the quality of rest. In addition, insufficient sleep during the night affects our health and metabolism. To avoid these inconveniences and many more, make some beneficial changes:

• Create a regular meal and sleep schedule: eat and go to bed every day at the same hours.

• Have the last meal at least two hours before bedtime.
• In the afternoon, it is important to be aware of one essential thing: you need to slow down. At first, you can lie in bed for a while, but mentally you have to slow down the activity.
• Two hours before bedtime, you should set aside your computer and mobile phone.

Emotion management

We all know that managing emotions is not easy. But it is important to create a set of priorities. Here are some ways to do this:

• Don’t leave for tomorrow what bothers you or worries you today. 
• Don’t ignore the link between stress and hyperthyroidism. Solve minor problems before they take on huge proportions.
• Focus on the present. Instead of thinking about what might happen tomorrow, apply a simpler strategy: What can I do to solve this problem today?

• Try to get rid of the emotional tension: talk to the people around you about what you have in mind. Keep a diary, exercise and relax every day.

Mindfulness  technique

it is a meditation technique and a way to strengthen the connection between mind and body.

• It is recommended to practice mindfulness at least one hour a day. Do not forget that this practice extends to the area of ​​food or other segments of life.
• Mindfulness simply means being anchored in the present and enjoying everything you do. At the same time, this meditation technique consists in listening to yourself and living life at a slower pace and in a more responsible way.

Given the link between stress and hyperthyroidism, it is important to apply all of the above techniques to avoid complications and take better care of your body.