Autumn and the thyroid gland: how does the season affect hormones
NewsIn autumn, many people say: fatigue becomes stronger, weight increases, although the diet has not changed, and the skin and hair have become worse.
This is usually attributed to the autumn blues, but endocrinologists see another reason for this — the seasonal restructuring of the thyroid gland.
What happens to hormones?
Studies have shown: TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone, regulates the thyroid gland) is higher in winter than in other seasons, and T4 (thyroxine, controls almost all key processes in the body) reaches its peak in autumn.
It turns out that autumn is a transitional period when the thyroid gland is actively being rebuilt. And right now, the hidden problems that were compensated for themselves in the summer may make themselves felt for the first time.
Why does it affect weight?
Thyroid hormones are the main regulator of the metabolic rate. Even latent hypothyroidism (TSH above 4.0 mIU/l at normal T4) slows down the basic metabolism by 15-25% and interferes with the breakdown of fats.
You eat the same amount as in the summer, but you spend less energy – and the weight grows. In autumn, this effect is enhanced due to the natural seasonal rise in TSH.
Iodine and selenium deficiency are also added here. Without iodine, the thyroid gland cannot produce enough hormones.
Selenium is needed for the enzyme that converts T4 into active T3 (it is he who directly "turns on" the necessary processes in cells). If there is not enough selenium, TSH may be normal, but active T3 is still not enough – hence fatigue, chilliness and weight gain.
What to do?
Autumn is a good time to get tested.
Basic set of analyses:
- TTG
- free T4
- free T3 and antibodies to thyroperoxidase (anti-TPO)
The latter is needed to exclude autoimmune thyroiditis – it often first manifests itself or worsens precisely in the off-season. If you are already taking levothyroxine, it is important to check TSH in the fall: even with a stable dose in winter, it may rise, and it will have to be adjusted.
When should I be on my guard?
If you feel chilly, dry skin, brittle nails, constipation, a rare pulse, memory impairment, weight gain without changes in diet.
These are classic signs of reduced thyroid function – they should not be ignored, but immediately consult a specialist.
You can make an appointment for a consultation with an endocrinologist at MCSC by phone:
- +7 (495) 304-30-39
Be healthy!
