The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland that is located within the neck. It is the source of hormones that regulate metabolism, development, and growth. If this gland isn’t functioning in a way, it can trigger a range of health issues that include fatigue, weight gain depression, fatigue, and many more. Alcohol abuse is known to affect various organs and tissue in the body, and it’s not surprising that it can also have an impact on the thyroid gland.
Alcohol and thyroid hormones
The thyroid gland makes two major hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4). These hormones regulate energy production, metabolism, heart rate, as well as body temperature. Consuming alcohol may affect the normal release and production of these hormones, leading to thyroid dysfunction.
One way in which alcohol can affect the thyroid gland is by blocking the conversion of T4 into T3. T4 is an inactive form of thyroid hormone that is made by the thyroid gland. It needs to be converted into active T3 in order to perform its duties throughout the body. Alcohol consumption can alter this process and lead to a decline in T3 and an increase in T4 levels. Hypothyroidism in the form of hypoclinical symptoms can result from this, since thyroid glands don’t produce sufficient T3 even when T4 levels are in normal range.
Alcohol and thyroid disease
The immune system attacks the thyroid glands in order to cause inflammation and damage. Hashimoto’s and Gravesillness are both autoimmune thyroid conditions. Alcohol use is linked to both of these diseases.
Alcohol consumption can trigger an autoimmune response within the body that can lead to the development of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This condition leads to the thyroid gland becoming irritated and it causes it to become damaged. It also triggers the thyroid hormone to drop in production. People suffering from Hashimoto’s thyroiditis usually suffer from fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
Graves’ disease on the other hand, is characterized by an overactive thyroid gland which produces too much thyroid hormone. Intoxication with alcohol may increase Graves’s disease symptoms and cause complications, including heart problems, and osteoporosis.
Iodine and alcohol deficiency
Iodine is an essential mineral that is required by the body to make thyroid hormones. Without sufficient iodine, the thyroid gland can’t produce sufficient thyroid hormones, which leads to hypothyroidism. Alcohol can cause problems with the absorption and use of iodine in the body. The result is thyroid disorders.
Interactions between alcohol and drugs
In most cases, thyroid hormones such as levothyroxine and liothyronine are prescribed to sufferers of thyroid problems. Drinking alcohol may affect effective absorption and the effectiveness of medication. This can lead to inadequate treatment for thyroid conditions. Alcohol can also negatively interact with other drugs used to treat thyroid disorders like anti-thyroid drugs or beta-blockers.
The abuse of alcohol has an adverse effect on thyroid function. Alcohol abuse can have a significant impact on the health of your thyroid. It could cause the production of thyroid hormones to be disrupted as well as trigger an immune response and block the uptake of iodine and negatively interact with thyroid medication. It’s crucial to consult an expert medical professional if you struggle with alcohol addiction and having symptoms of thyroid dysfunction. It is possible to get your thyroid function assessed and advised on appropriate treatment including lifestyle changes and addiction treatment programs. You can improve your thyroid health and overcome addiction to alcohol with the right treatment and management.
The consumption of alcohol has been linked to several negative health outcomes including thyroid disorders. Consuming alcohol can increase the risk of hypothyroidism graves’ disease, hypothyroidism and other thyroid diseases. However, research suggests moderate alcohol consumption can hinder the absorption of medication to treat thyroid issues. It is the best to drink moderate amounts of alcohol in accordance with the centers for prevention and control of disease. People with thyroid issues who drink alcohol should be aware of any effects it may cause on their symptoms, for example, depression and fatigue. Small amounts of alcohol can interfere with medication efficacy and could cause health issues. Knowing the effects of alcohol on thyroid health will help you make informed decisions. Keep in mind that your health over the long term should be the top priority in your agenda!
For more information, click complications of alcoholism and hypothyroidism
