Understanding hypothyroidism: causes and risk factors at a glance

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped organ in the neck area that plays a central role in metabolism, hormone regulation and energy balance plays.

If you insufficient hormones produced, it is called an underactive thyroid or hypothyroidism.

This problem affects worldwide millions of people and is increasingly being diagnosed in young adults – especially in Austria and Germany.

How does hypothyroidism occur?

Hypothyroidism can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

1. iodine deficiency: Iodine is an essential building block for the production of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. A lack of iodine means that the thyroid can no longer perform its function adequately.
2. Autoimmune diseases: A common cause is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
3. Genetic factors: A family history increases the risk of thyroid disease.
4. Stress and nutrient deficiencies: Chronic stress and an unbalanced diet can strain the thyroid and lead to hormonal imbalances.
5. Environmental factors: Exposure to pollutants such as heavy metals and pesticides can impair thyroid function.

How does Hashimoto's thyroiditis develop?

Hashimoto occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid and causes chronic inflammation. In the long term, this leads to an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

The exact causes are not fully understood, but there are a number of risk factors:

1. Genetic predisposition: Hashimoto often occurs in people who have a family history of autoimmune diseases.

2. Hormonal fluctuations: Women are affected about ten times more often than men, especially during hormonal transition phases such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause.

3. stress and environmental factors: Chronic stress, environmental toxins (e.g. heavy metals) and infections can unbalance the immune system and promote autoimmune reactions.

4. iodine status: With prolonged iodine deficiency, the thyroid gland is overstimulated to maintain hormone production. This overload can damage the thyroid and activate the immune system.

5. nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in selenium, zinc, iron and vitamin D can weaken thyroid function and the immune system, thereby promoting autoimmune diseases such as Hashimoto.

How many people are affected by hypothyroidism?

In Austria and Germany An estimated 5–10% of the population is affected by hypothyroidism. With a total population of about 9.16 million people in Austria, this corresponds to approximately 458,000 to 916,000 affected.

In Germany, with around 84.67 million inhabitants, this would mean around 4.23 to 8.47 million people affected.

Women are affected about five times more often than men.In addition, the disease is increasingly being diagnosed in young people, with factors such as lifestyle, stress and nutrition play a crucial role.

What are the consequences of untreated hypothyroidism?

Without treatment, hypothyroidism can cause significant health problems, including:

Physical complaints: Weight gain, sensitivity to cold, hair loss, dry skin and constipation.

Psychological stress: Depression, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating and memory problems.

Hormonal imbalances: Menstrual disorders and infertility in women.

Long-term consequences: Cardiovascular diseases, elevated cholesterol levels and a dangerous enlarged thyroid (goiter).

The Importance of Iodine from Natural Sources

Iodine is essential for the thyroidbecause it is needed for the production of the hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). A deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism and other complications.

In many regions of Germany and Austria, the soil is very low in iodine, which makes it difficult to obtain a natural supply through food. Natural sources of iodine such as seaweed (e.g. dulse, wakame or nori) offer a valuable and safe alternative.

Benefits of iodine from seaweed:

Naturalness: Seaweed not only provides iodine, but also other important trace elements such as iron, potassium and vitamin K.

Gentle recording: Compared to synthetic iodine supplements, iodine from algae is better absorbed and processed by the body.

Natural measures to support the thyroid

In addition to an adequate supply of iodine, there are other nutrients and herbal active ingredients that can support the thyroid in the long term:

Proteins with all essential amino acids: Thyroid hormones are formed from tyrosine, an amino acid. A protein-rich diet with complete amino acid profiles is therefore crucial. Plant-based protein sources such as almonds, chickpeas, quinoa, amaranth, chia seeds, spirulina, buckwheat or special protein blends can help with this.

By combining several of these sources, the protein quality in the plant-based diet can be optimally ensured and the absorption of tyrosine can be supported.

diosgenin from the yam root: This special herbal ingredient has hormone-regulating properties and can support the production of thyroid hormones. Diosgenin also has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps regulate hormonal imbalances.

Iodine from seaweed: Regular intake of dulse flakes or algae oils not only provide the body with iodine, but also support general health through their versatile nutrients.

Other nutrients:

Selenium: Supports the conversion of T4 into active T3 and protects the thyroid from oxidative stress.

Zinc: Important for hormone production.

Vitamin D: Regulates the immune system and alleviates autoimmune reactions.

Why treatment with L-thyroxine alone is not enough

L-thyroxine is a commonly prescribed medication that artificial T4 delivers.It relieves the symptoms of hypothyroidism but does not address the underlying causes.

Without accompanying changes in diet and lifestyle continue to put strain on the body. This leads to the dose often increased must be treated and there is no long-term cure.

Holistic Approaches for Long-Term Healing

A sustainable improvement of hypothyroidism requires a holistic approach, which includes the following aspects:

Nutrition: Focus on nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory foods and natural sources of iodine such as seaweed.

Stress management: Regular relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation support hormonal balance.

Movement: Moderate exercise promotes blood circulation and metabolism.

Herbal support: Products containing yam root, amino acids, algae oils and herbal extracts can strengthen the thyroid.

Conclusion

Hypothyroidism is a serious but treatable problem that often requires holistic approach required.

A balanced diet and the targeted supply of important nutrients can support thyroid function.

Drug treatment with L-thyroxine can alleviate symptoms, but it should ideally be supplemented by a conscious lifestyle and in the long term even replaced in order to eliminate causes and promote general health in the best possible way.