The Thyroid and Diabetes

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped endocrine gland.  The main function of the thyroid gland is to convert iodine (found in many foods) into thyroid hormones.  They are the only cells in the body that can absorb iodine.  Thyroid hormones affect all the cells in the body and control a lot of bodily functions.  Iodized salt is a good source if you need iodine added to your diet.  Potassium iodide and sodium iodide are active forms of supplemental iodine.

Both diabetes and thyroid disorders are affected by a malfunction of the endocrine system, which secretes directly into the bloodstream.  The secretion of thyroxin (T3) and diiodothyronine (T4) by the thyroid gland helps in controlling metabolism.

The thyroid makes hormones that help control metabolism, body weight, energy level, heart rate, menstrual regularity, muscle strength, and temperature.

Thyroid problems are fairly common in diabetics and can cause metabolic disturbances.  The most common thyroid problems are goiters, hyperthyroidism, and hypothyroidism.  A goiter may be due to a lack of iodine in the diet, thyroiditis (inflammation) from infection, tumors, or hyper-or-hypo function of the thyroid.  Hypothyroidism occurs when there is not enough thyroid hormone circulation in your body.  Have your doctor check for hypothyroidism if you have several of these symptoms: fatigue, depression, muscle and joint pain, high cholesterol, feeling cold in warm weather, dry skin, heavy periods, husky voice, hair loss, memory loss, constipation, or weight gain.  Hyperthyroidism is when there is too much thyroid hormone circulation in the body.  Symptoms include: feeling hot when others aren't, pounding heart, irregular heartbeat, nervousness, and irritability, restlessness and inability to sleep, tremors, hair loss, decreased periods, diarrhea, and weight loss.

A thyroid imbalance can impact glucose (sugar) control and how your diabetes is managed.  Thyroid disorders may go unnoticed because the symptoms are similar to those of diabetes.  You may have thyroid problems instead of poor diabetic control.

Insulin resistance mas many of the same symptoms as hypothyroidism.  Untreated hypothyroidism may cause blood glucose to rise, weight loss may occur, and ketones may begin circulation in the blood -- leading to more insulin and/or medication.  Once the thyroid problems are treated, diabetes management is usually improved.  Patients who are on a thyroid medication should never switch medication brands or amounts without checking with their doctor, because it does make a difference.  When you take your thyroid medication, allow at least an hour before taking your calcium supplement.

May you have A very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!  Don't forget the reason for the season:  Jesus Christ, first and foremost!