The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Coconut Oil Diet by Maria Blanco CFH & James Pendleton

Author:Maria Blanco, CFH & James Pendleton [Blanco, Maria]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781615643394
Publisher: DK Publishing
Published: 2013-04-01T16:00:00+00:00

What Is Thyroid Disease?

The thyroid gland is one of several glands in the endocrine system. It gets its name from the Greek word thyreoiedes—shield shaped. More familiarly, however, it is described as being a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck in front of the trachea and below the Adam’s apple.

The glands of the endocrine system control many of the body’s functions through the secretion of hormones. These hormones circulate in the bloodstream and work to regulate functions of specific systems in the body. The thyroid gland is integral in controlling how rapidly the body uses energy. It also plays a role in protein production and controls the body’s sensitivity to other hormones. Diseases of the thyroid gland directly affect the body’s energy, metabolism, growth, weight, and temperature. Thyroid disease has become a very common endocrine disorder, especially in women. There are many forms of thyroid disease, but two are of particular interest.

Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, is a disorder in which the thyroid produces less hormone than is necessary for normal bodily functions. Symptoms include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Thinning hair

• Brittle nails

• Weight gain

• Puffiness in the face

• Chronic fatigue

• A decreased heart rate

• Constipation

• Sensitivity to cold

• Dry skin

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