Thyroid Health

Most people never think about their thyroid gland until a doctor diagnoses a problem. Here at Revitalize Anti Aging Center, we take a proactive approach to ensuring the healthy operation of this crucial manufacturer of one of the body’s most essential hormones.

The Importance of the Thyroid Gland

The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower part of the front of the neck which regulates many body functions through its two hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which is the active hormone. These hormones regulate metabolic control, appetite, sleep cycles, among many other significant bodily functions.

Thyroid disorders affect a person’s energy levels, weight gain, mood and irritability, memory and ability to concentrate, quality of skin, nails, and hair, as well as tolerance to cold and heat. The thyroid gland also has a profound influence on heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

How the Thyroid Functions

Upon stimulation by TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) which is released by the pituitary gland in the brain, the thyroid produces T3 (about 10% of its output) and T4 (about 80-90%). T4 is then converted to T3, which is 3 to 4 times more potent than T4. Most of this conversion takes place in the liver and requires a selenium-containing enzyme for the process. The ratio of circulating T3 in human blood is about one-fortieth that of T4. High levels of T3 and T4, in turn, inhibit the release of TSH by the pituitary gland in a negative feedback loop.

Disorders of the Thyroid

Thyroid disorders fall into two main categories:

Hypothyroidism

Under activity of the thyroid gland

Hyperthyroidism

Overactivity of the gland

Diagnosing and Treating Thyroid Disorders

Measuring TSH, T3, T4 reverse T3 (a metabolite of T4), cortisol levels, as well as the presence of anti-thyroid antibodies in certain circumstances, can give us a good idea of the state of a person’s thyroid health. This is done through a simple blood test.

Thyroid conditions can be treated in several ways, including hormone replacement and drugs.

Whatever the treatment, balancing and restoring your youthful levels of thyroid hormone plays a major role in reversing some of the unwanted symptoms of thyroid disorders and gives you back a sense of youthfulness, vibrancy, and vigor. This all contributes to a better quality of life and a younger more energetic version of yourself.

Ready for a Healthier Heart?

At Revitalize Anti Aging Centers, we are here to help you understand and improve your heart health. Get started today by calling us at the number on your screen or through our contact page. Based in Encino, we help patients from Sherman Oaks, Beverly Hills, and the entire Greater Los Angeles area. Let your journey to great heart health begin now!