Thyroid problems are increasingly common, with millions of people around the world suffering from hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. In his video, Dr. Berg highlights the importance of a particular nutrient in the management of thyroid problems: selenium. This nutrient is crucial to both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism and can help manage the autoimmune conditions responsible for most thyroid problems.
Understanding Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
Before delving into the importance of selenium in thyroid health, it is essential to understand hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce enough hormones to regulate the body's metabolism. Conversely, hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is overactive and produces an excess of hormones that increase the body's metabolism.
Autoimmune Conditions and Thyroid Problems
According to Dr. Berg, 90% of all hypothyroidism cases and most hyperthyroidism cases are autoimmune conditions. In these conditions, the body produces specific antibodies that attack the thyroid gland's cells, preventing it from functioning correctly. These attacks cause constant inflammation, leading to thyroid problems. The three main antibodies involved in these autoimmune conditions are thyroid peroxidase, thyroglobulin receptor, and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor.
The Importance of Selenium in Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism
The Role of Selenium in Thyroid Health
Although iodine is vital for the production of thyroid hormones, Dr. Berg highlights that selenium is a crucial nutrient for thyroid health. Selenium is predominantly present in the thyroid gland, and a deficiency of selenium can lead to hypothyroidism. By contrast, selenium supplementation can reduce the autoimmune antibodies responsible for most thyroid problems.
Selenium and Antibodies
Selenium can significantly reduce autoimmune antibodies in thyroid problems, including those against thyroid peroxidase, thyroglobulin receptor, and thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor. The reduction in these antibodies helps improve the thyroid gland's overall function and helps manage autoimmune conditions in hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Selenium and Hormonal Conversion
Selenium also helps convert the inactive T4 hormone to the active T3 hormone. T3 is the hormone that regulates the body's metabolism, and without enough T3, hypothyroidism can occur. Thus, a selenium deficiency can lead to a lack of T3 hormone in the body. Supplementing with selenium can help improve hormonal conversion and regulate the body's metabolism.
Selenium and Inflammation
Selenium is involved in the production of glutathione, one of the body's most potent antioxidants. By improving glutathione levels, selenium can decrease inflammation in the body, including that caused by autoimmune conditions. This property makes selenium an essential nutrient for liver health, as it can help prevent liver inflammation, fibrosis, and even cancer.
Selenium and Fish Consumption
Selenium is abundant in certain types of fish, and consuming these types of fish can help prevent a selenium deficiency. Furthermore, selenium helps the body produce a protein that helps eliminate mercury and cadmium. These two heavy metals are linked to thyroid problems, and selenium's ability to help eliminate them can further improve thyroid health.
Final Words
Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are increasingly common conditions that can cause severe health problems if left untreated. The importance of a nutrient like selenium cannot be overstated in managing these conditions, as it can help manage autoimmune conditions, improve hormonal conversion, and decrease inflammation. Consuming selenium-rich foods or taking selenium supplements can help prevent a deficiency and improve overall thyroid health.