Main Functions of the Thyroid Gland

Have you ever wondered, "What role does the thyroid gland play in the human body?" Continue reading this article to learn in detail about the thyroid gland's function and the factors that affect its efficiency.

What is the Function of the Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. It is part of the endocrine system, meaning its primary function is to secrete a group of hormones directly into the bloodstream. Here are the hormones it secretes:

• Thyroxine (T4): This is the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland, which is converted into Triiodothyronine (T3), the active form of the thyroid hormone.
• Triiodothyronine (T3): The thyroid produces a smaller amount of this hormone compared to thyroxine, but T3 has a greater impact on metabolism.
• Calcitonin: This hormone is also produced by the thyroid gland and is responsible for controlling the levels of phosphate and calcium in the body.

As previously mentioned, the thyroid gland controls many functions by producing and secreting a group of hormones that play a role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body. Here are the detailed functions of the thyroid hormones:

• Metabolism: The thyroid gland is primarily responsible for metabolism, which is how the body uses energy. Thus, it is responsible for the body's energy levels.
• Cardiovascular system: The thyroid helps regulate the amount of blood pumped by the heart, heart rate, and the strength of heart contractions.
• Nervous System: Improper thyroid function can cause numerous symptoms related to the nervous system, such as numbness, tingling, pain, and a burning sensation in affected parts of the body. Hypothyroidism can cause depression, while hyperthyroidism can cause anxiety.
• Digestive System: The thyroid gland is involved in how food moves through the digestive tract.
• Fertility and Reproductive System: Thyroid hormones affect the reproductive system, and any imbalance can lead to issues with menstrual cycles and fertility.
• Other Functions: These include maintaining muscle and bone health, brain development, respiration, and body temperature balance.

What Factors Affect Thyroid Efficiency?

The thyroid gland relies on a good supply of iodine from the diet to function properly. The cells that produce thyroid hormones are highly specialized in extracting and absorbing iodine from the blood and incorporating it into thyroid hormones. Thus, having too little or too much iodine in the body affects the level of hormones produced by the thyroid gland.

To promote thyroid health, ensure a daily and continuous supply of iodine, which is found in food and water. The best way to get it is by using iodized salt for seasoning food and consuming seafood and dairy products.

Can a Person Live Without a Thyroid Gland?

Yes, you can, but you would need to take thyroid hormone replacement medications for the rest of your life to stay healthy and prevent unwanted symptoms.

It is important to note that a person may be without a thyroid gland if they undergo surgery to remove it, known as a thyroidectomy.

Finally, you can ensure your thyroid health by undergoing the thyroid tests Package offered by Blazma, which measure thyroid hormone levels and provide an insight into thyroid health. Note that this test does not require any prior preparations.