How Excessive Alcohol Consumption Is Bad For Thyroid Patients

The thyroid is a gland located in the neck and it regulates metabolism by releasing hormones. These hormones also control the breakdown of food and the usage of energy in the body. The thyroid gland secretes two hormones, triiodothyronine T3 and thyroxine T4. These hormones are crucial for different functions in our body. Nowadays, many people are suffering from various thyroid problems, like hypothyroidism. 

This problem happens when the thyroid gland makes too few thyroid hormones. If too many or fewer thyroid hormones are present in your blood, you can face weight gain, depression, fatigue, hair loss, and dry skin. Many people have questions in their mind like can alcohol affect thyroid. In this article, we will tell you about the impact of alcohol on thyroid function:

Alcoholism And Thyroid Function

Excessive alcohol consumption is also accountable for many thyroid problems. Heavy alcohol use has a bad effect on the thyroid gland. Excessive alcohol indeed increases hypothyroid-related symptoms like fatigue, constipation, muscle weakness, elevated blood cholesterol level, etc. Alcohol addiction also affects the immune system. It causes inflammation and liver damage. Also, acetaldehyde chemical found in alcoholic beverages stops hormone receptors in the thyroid from doing their job. 

Due to the link between the liver and the thyroid function, alcohol addiction can cause different health problems in the body. As per research, excessive alcohol consumption contributes to the development of Graves’ disease and Hypothyroidism. Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its thyroid gland. So, alcoholism makes many things worse for thyroid patients. It impacts the thyroid gland directly and indirectly.

Alcohol Addiction Responsible For Hypothyroidism

Alcohol addiction is responsible for creating fewer thyroid hormones in the body. It puts extra pressure on the thyroid gland. People with underactive thyroid experience hypothyroidism. As per research, excessive alcohol consumption is responsible for this thyroid disease. People with Hypothyroidism experience various symptoms, like tiredness, weight gain, constipation, muscle cramps, depression, etc. 

Excessive alcohol use slows down the breakdown of thyroid hormone T4 in the liver. If there is a deficiency of T3 in your blood, you can face hypothyroidism. These thyroid hormones are vital in maintaining health and well-being throughout life. So, alcoholic people have an increased risk of hypothyroidism. 

Alcohol Abuse And Thyroid Treatment

If you notice your thyroid is not working well, you should see your doctor. People take supplements containing natural thyroid hormones. Also, you should avoid drinking alcohol if you drink frequently. Alcohol addiction is not suitable for people with thyroid problems like Hypothyroidism. First, you can start moderate alcohol consumption as it is safe. People with both extreme alcoholism and thyroid disease must take treatment soon.

These people need to give up drinking as soon as possible. They can go to rehab to overcome alcohol addiction. Trained healthcare professionals watch patients and watch their symptoms. Also, you will get help for managing your thyroid problems like hypothyroidism. Alcohol abuse is not good for any person.