Fasting May Affect Thyroid Health, Experts Advise Caution

Kathmandu. There are many ways to lose weight and improve health. Many people think that fasting helps to detoxify the body and improve metabolism. But it is not beneficial for everyone. 

Fasting can also affect thyroid health. The thyroid gland controls many important functions such as metabolism, energy production, and temperature regulation. When the body does not get enough calories during fasting, the production and activity of thyroid hormones can change. 

Some studies have shown that prolonged calorie deficiency or fasting can reduce T3 hormone levels and slow down metabolism.

Can fasting cause thyroid problems?

Fasting does not directly cause thyroid disease, but prolonged calorie deficiency can affect thyroid hormone levels. The thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland in our neck, mainly produces T3 and T4 hormones. These hormones help control energy use, metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and other functions.

When the body does not get enough energy or calories, it slows down its metabolism to conserve energy. This response can reduce the production of T3 and T4 hormones, as T3 regulates the body's energy usage. This does not mean that fasting causes thyroid disease in everyone. But its effects may be more pronounced in those with thyroid problems.

How does fasting affect thyroid hormones?

Hormonal changes occur continuously in the body based on energy availability. When food is not available for a long time, the body goes into 'survival mode'. During fasting, T3 hormone levels can decrease. Besides, reverse T3 may also increase. Metabolism slows down, and the body tries to save energy.

How can fasting worsen thyroid symptoms?

If a person already has hypothyroidism, excessive or improper fasting can exacerbate certain symptoms. Which are as follows:

Increased fatigue and weakness- If thyroid hormone is already low, fasting affects the body's energy levels. Prolonged fasting can increase fatigue and weakness.

Feeling cold- According to the Mayo Clinic, thyroid hormones regulate body temperature. As T3 levels decrease, a person may feel cold.

Difficulty concentrating- The brain requires a constant supply of glucose. Prolonged food deprivation and hormonal changes can make it difficult to concentrate.

Weight loss stalls- Many people fast to lose weight, but excessive calorie restriction can slow down metabolism, which can hinder weight loss.

Is intermittent fasting always harmful?

The answer is that it is not harmful to everyone. Studies have shown that controlled intermittent fasting can help reduce obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. If a person eats a balanced diet and does not keep the fasting period too long, it can be safe for many people. However, individual medical advice is necessary for thyroid patients.

These people should be cautious while fasting

• Thyroid patients taking thyroid medication.
• Pregnant women should avoid fasting.
• In underweight individuals, excessive calorie restriction can lead to hormonal imbalance.
• Patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis should pay special attention to the duration of fasting and the quality of food.

Fasting does not directly cause thyroid disease, but it can affect thyroid hormone activity and metabolism. Prolonged fasting can exacerbate certain symptoms. Especially in those with hypothyroidism or other thyroid problems, it can worsen the problem. Therefore, thyroid patients should consult a doctor or endocrinologist before starting any type of fasting. With balanced nutrition, proper calorie intake, and proper medical guidance, fasting can be safer and more effective.