Thyroiditis - causes, symptoms & nutrients

Thyroiditis can lead to hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Find out more about causes, symptoms & how nutrients such as iodine, selenium & zinc can help.

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Wissenswertes über "Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland)"

Thyroid inflammation, also known as thyroiditis, is a disease in which the thyroid gland becomes inflamed, which can impair the function of this important organ.

The thyroid gland plays a central role in the body as it is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones, which control metabolism, growth and energy production. Inflammation of the thyroid gland can lead to both hyperthyroidism and inferior thyroid function, which causes different symptoms depending on the type of inflammation.

Causes and types of thyroid inflammation

Thyroid inflammation can have various causes, with autoimmune diseases, infections, postpartum changes and genetic factors play an important role. Infections can inflame the thyroid gland through both viral and bacterial pathogens. In the case of viral subacute thyroiditis, painful swelling of the thyroid gland and temporary hyperthyroidism can occur. Hormonal changes after childbirth can also trigger postpartum thyroiditis, which leads to temporary hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Finally, genetic factors also play a role, as people with a family history of thyroid disease have a higher risk of developing it themselves. One of the most common forms is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease. The immune system attacks its own thyroid gland, which can lead to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Typical symptoms include tiredness, weight gain, sensitivity to cold and concentration problems

Prevention of thyroiditis

Nutritional factors can play an important role in the treatment and prevention of thyroiditis. Important nutrients such as L-tyrosine, an amino acid building block for the production of thyroid hormones, and iodine, which is required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, are of great importance. An iodine deficiency can lead to insufficient hormone production and thus to an enlargement of the thyroid gland. Zinc and selenium are also important as they support the function of the thyroid gland and promote the conversion of T4 into the active hormone T3. Vitamin A also plays a role as it is involved in the regulation of thyroid hormones and can improve the condition of the thyroid gland. A balanced ratio of these nutrients can help to stabilise thyroid function and reduce the risk of inflammation.A thyroid complex as a dietary supplement with the important nutrients iodine, zinc, selenium, vitamin A and L-tyrosine provides important building blocks for the synthesis of thyroid hormones and strengthens the immune system for optimal thyroid function.