Metabolic Syndrome is a potentially dangerous syndrome that is inextricably linked to the modern way of life. It is defined by a combination of cardiovascular risk factors of metabolic etiology, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, abdominal obesity, and blood sugar disorders.

It should be noted that the definition of the syndrome is not static, but over time it is revised and adjusted. The complete diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome is made when three or more of the following criteria coexist in an individual: abdominal obesity, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol (“good” cholesterol), high blood pressure and high fasting glucose.

The percentage of people suffering from it is increasing more and more, especially in the Western world. Modern lifestyle, poor diet, stressful environment and increased body weight are factors that cause the development of metabolic syndrome.

A number of scientific studies show that thyroid dysfunction, especially subclinical hypothyroidism, is a common endocrine abnormality, that occurs in patients with metabolic syndrome.

Furthermore, patients with impaired glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin levels are more likely to develop thyroid disease.

Thyroid hormones play an important role in metabolism. Abnormal levels of thyroid hormones alter metabolism and some of these changes resemble the features of metabolic syndrome. Therefore, thyroid dysfunction can affect the metabolic syndrome. Lambadiari et al. reported that thyroid hormones are important determinants of glucose homeostasis and affect fasting glucose levels, as they compete with the action of insulin.

A research team examined the mechanism of action of thyroid hormones in the cardiovascular system and concluded that thyroid hormones have a direct and indirect effect on this. Patients with thyroid disease, especially hyperthyroidism, often report signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease.

Several other studies have shown that clinical hypothyroidism, a condition that is characterized by higher TSH levels and lower free T4 levels, causes an increase in blood pressure and plasma cholesterol levels.

In conclusion, thyroid hormones play an essential role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, thus affecting the parameters of the metabolic syndrome, including HDL, triglycerides, blood pressure and plasma glucose.

Dealing with thyroid problems

Many cases of thyroid dysfunction do not respond well to the use of common medications to restore hormone balance.

The evaluation of all biochemical markers and epigenetic data through specialized tests is the first important step to improve the function of the thyroid gland. This treatment includes individualized treatment protocols with dietary changes and appropriate micro and macronutrients. Hormonal restoration is also considered necessary, in order to complete the restoration of the hormonal system and consequently the gradual restoration of the metabolic syndrome.

 

 

Read more

6 Steps to heal your Thyroid Gland

Subclinical Hypothyroidism 

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