At North Houston Diabetes Institute, Dr. Juan Carlos Zubieta and the rest of our care team are here to help with your diabetes management plan. Here, we'll explore the link between thyroid health and weight management, and how your thyroid can affect diabetes.
What is the Thyroid Gland?
Located in the lower front area of the neck, the thyroid gland works to produce hormones that are added to the bloodstream. The butterfly-shaped gland's hormones are responsible for helping the body use energy and stay warm. These hormones also support the functions of the heart, brain, muscles, and additional organs.
Your Thyroid and Your Weight
There is an intricate relationship between the thyroid and weight. Since thyroid hormones regulate the body's metabolism, changes in the way the thyroid works can affect the way the body uses energy, causing changes in weight. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the body releases too many thyroid hormones, and hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid doesn't release enough thyroid hormones.
Diabetes and Your Thyroid
Thyroid disease is closely related to diabetes. People who have hyperthyroidism have an increased risk of diabetes. As insulin levels drop due to the additional thyroid hormone in the blood stream, blood sugar can increase, leading to the development of diabetes over time. People who have hypothyroidism may experience a persistent decrease in blood sugar levels, which can result in cravings for food. People who have type 1 diabetes are at increased risk for developing thyroid conditions including Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Understanding your thyroid health can play an important role in your diabetes management plan. It's important to work with a care provider who understands the role your thyroid plays in weight management and diabetes management.
Call North Houston Diabetes Institute in Humble, TX, Today
There are many factors that can affect diabetes, and it's important to choose a care team with the experience and expertise that you need to feel your best. At North Houston Diabetes Institute, Dr. Zubieta and the rest of our care team will be with you every step of the way as we find a treatment that's the right fit for your needs. Reach out to us today at 832-644-9595 to schedule your first appointment.