Medically reviewed by
Dr. Minako Abe, M.D., Board-certified emergency medicine physician researching the relationship between lifestyle and disease onset in relation to the immune system and cancer, Japan
The thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, is an essential part of the endocrine system and plays a vital role in regulating metabolism, growth, and energy levels through thyroid hormone production. Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which constitute the thyroid hormone, are released in response to the stimulation of the thyroid gland by the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) produced by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain.
A malfunctioning thyroid can result in various symptoms, including changes in energy levels. Causes of thyroid dysfunction typically include autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease, radiation therapy, and certain medications. In some cases, the cause may be unknown.
If you experience unexplained changes in your energy levels or suspect that you may have an underlying thyroid problem, it is essential to seek medical attention. Your doctor can perform a physical examination, blood tests, and imaging studies to diagnose any thyroid problems. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may involve medication, surgery, or lifestyle changes.
This article addresses the following:
What is the relationship between the thyroid and energy?
The relationship between the thyroid and energy is crucial, as the thyroid gland plays a key role in regulating the body’s metabolism, which is responsible for energy production.
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can lead to a slower metabolism. In this case, the body is not producing enough thyroid hormone, which can cause the body to burn energy too slowly, leading to fatigue. People with hypothyroidism may feel sluggish and cold and have difficulty concentrating and remembering things.
An overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause an increase in metabolism. In this case, the body produces too much thyroid hormone, which can cause the body to burn energy too quickly, leading to fatigue. People with hyperthyroidism may feel jittery and restless and have difficulty sleeping, but they may also feel fatigued despite having a high level of energy.
The relationship between the thyroid gland and energy levels is mediated by a couple of factors, such as the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and the regulation of temperature, various bodily systems like the sleep-wake cycle, and the production of various hormones in the body. For instance, thyroid hormones can affect the production of adrenaline, a hormone that helps the body to respond to stress. A defective thyroid can affect the production of adrenaline, leading to fatigue and exhaustion.
How does a healthy thyroid promote energy?
A healthy thyroid plays a crucial role in promoting energy in the body. Should you continually experience fatigue or low energy, it is important to seek medical advice and care from your healthcare provider. If your reduced energy levels are as a result of poor thyroid health, there are some basic health measures and practices that may be of help in promoting proper thyroid health. Some of these include good nutrition, regular exercise, and regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, among other measures and practices.
Here are some ways in which a healthy thyroid promotes energy:
- Regulating metabolism: Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) help to regulate the body’s metabolism, which is the process by which the body converts food into energy. When the thyroid hormone is at normal levels, it helps ensure the body uses glucose and fatty acids efficiently for energy. This means that energy is readily available for the body to use as needed, leading to feelings of vitality and alertness.
- Increasing oxygen consumption and facilitating ATP production: The thyroid hormones also increase oxygen consumption in the body’s cells, which is necessary for energy production. This means that more oxygen is being delivered to the cells, allowing the mitochondria (usually referred to as the “powerhouses” of the cells) to produce more ATP to meet the body’s energy needs.
- Maintaining body temperature: A healthy thyroid also helps regulate body temperature, which can significantly impact energy levels and prevent fatigue. Thyroid hormones achieve this by influencing the rate of heat production and loss. The thyroid can regulate how much heat escapes the body through the influence of the thyroid hormone on the extent to which blood vessels dilate.
- Regulating sleep: The thyroid hormone also plays a role in regulating sleep, which is essential for maintaining optimal energy levels. Proper thyroid function can help regulate sleep patterns, ensuring the body gets the rest it needs to maintain energy levels. A body’s properly functioning sleep-wake cycle translates to restful sleep and helps prevent daytime fatigue.
- Supporting healthy mood: A healthy thyroid can also help regulate mood and cognitive function, affecting energy levels. This is owing to the thyroid hormone’s role in the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. When the thyroid gland is functioning correctly, it helps to ensure that the body produces enough of these neurotransmitters, which can help promote a positive mood, cognitive function, and mental energy.
Key Takeaways
- The relationship between the thyroid and energy is critical, as the thyroid gland plays a vital role in regulating the body’s metabolism, body temperature, and hormone production.
- Any dysfunction in the thyroid gland can lead to changes in energy levels, causing symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and changes in sleep patterns.
- If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, speaking with a healthcare provider to determine if thyroid dysfunction may be the cause is crucial.
- A healthy thyroid promotes energy by regulating metabolism, mitochondrial function (ATP production), body temperature, sleep patterns, mood, and cognitive function.
- Maintaining good thyroid health through regular check-ups, a balanced diet, exercise, and proper treatment if thyroid dysfunction is detected can help support overall energy levels and health.
