problems with conversion of INactive Thyroid Hormone T4 to active thyroid hormone t3 can cause symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism
Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating your body's metabolism and is essential for brain development in infants. The thyroid hormones exist in two main forms: thyroxine, also known as T4, and triiodothyronine, or T3. T4, with its 4 iodine atoms, transforms into T3 when one iodine atom is removed, resulting in a potent hormone that drives cellular functions. This conversion mainly occurs in the liver and the gut.
T3 emerges as the dominant thyroid hormone, boasting 7-10 times more potency than its T4 counterpart. As T4 acts as the precursor thyroid hormone, paving the way for T3 to become the active thyroid hormone, a fascinating process unfolds when an "opposite mirror-image" iodine is detached from T4, giving rise to reverse T3, also known as RT3.
Reverse T3, or RT3, plays a fascinating role in the thyroid system by acting as a natural brake for the body's functions. While T3 typically fuels our bodily processes, there are instances, such as during critical illness, where it's beneficial for the body to curb its activities. Factors like stress, extreme dieting, low serum iron levels, cortisol deficiencies, and diabetes can trigger an uptick in RT3 production. This intricate mechanism showcases how the thyroid system delicately balances acceleration and deceleration to support overall health and well-being.
If individuals exhibit normal T4 levels alongside low or diminished T3 levels, it raises concerns about a potential thyroid hormone conversion issue. The thyroid gland primarily secretes thyroxine, also known as T4, with a smaller amount of triiodothyronine, or T3, being produced as well. The conversion of T4 to T3 accounts for the majority of T3 production. However, various factors can impact this conversion process, which will be explored further in this post.
