{"id":4514,"date":"2020-06-13T09:30:18","date_gmt":"2020-06-13T09:30:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/44.199.17.173\/?p=4514"},"modified":"2024-06-20T09:40:29","modified_gmt":"2024-06-20T17:40:29","slug":"what-is-the-thyroid","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/","title":{"rendered":"What is the thyroid?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"4514\" class=\"elementor elementor-4514\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-9bdeea3 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"9bdeea3\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;_id&quot;:&quot;1ab183d&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image_tablet&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image_mobile&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_speed&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;%&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:50,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_type&quot;:&quot;scroll&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_direction&quot;:null,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_fx_direction&quot;:null,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_z_index&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x&quot;:50,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y&quot;:50,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size&quot;:&quot;auto&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_animation_prop&quot;:&quot;transform&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;,&quot;tablet&quot;]}]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-dd906da\" data-id=\"dd906da\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e0edd4e elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"e0edd4e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Copy-of-Cream-Shadow-Overlay-Elements-Delicate-Instagram-300x300-1.png\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-4504 lazyload\" alt=\"The Canadian flag waves proudly against a backdrop of majestic mountains, with an overlay suggesting a focus on health condition prevalence.\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Copy-of-Cream-Shadow-Overlay-Elements-Delicate-Instagram-300x300-1.png 300w, https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Copy-of-Cream-Shadow-Overlay-Elements-Delicate-Instagram-300x300-1-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Copy-of-Cream-Shadow-Overlay-Elements-Delicate-Instagram-300x300-1.png\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-4504 lazyload\" alt=\"The Canadian flag waves proudly against a backdrop of majestic mountains, with an overlay suggesting a focus on health condition prevalence.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Copy-of-Cream-Shadow-Overlay-Elements-Delicate-Instagram-300x300-1.png 300w, https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Copy-of-Cream-Shadow-Overlay-Elements-Delicate-Instagram-300x300-1-150x150.png 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/noscript>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5313f7e elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"5313f7e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h5 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">A Quick Word From Your Thyroid<\/h5>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d830fe2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d830fe2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d261016 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d261016\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\"><div class=\"elementor-widget-container\"><div class=\"elementor-text-editor elementor-clearfix\"><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cHello! I\u2019m your thyroid gland, and my job is pretty important for keeping you feeling energetic and ready for your day. I produce hormones like T4 and T3 that set the pace for how your body uses energy. Think of me as a thermostat that regulates your body\u2019s metabolism. Whether you\u2019re solving a tricky math problem or enjoying a morning jog, I ensure that your metabolism is running smoothly so you can perform at your best. At night, when you\u2019re winding down, I continue to work quietly in the background, making sure your body\u2019s energy needs are met, even while you sleep.\u201d<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f76a2aa elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"f76a2aa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP\/\/\/yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/hyperthyroidism_TW_Card_July_600x600_02-300x300-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-4516 lazyload\" alt=\"Medical Illustration of Tryroid gland\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/hyperthyroidism_TW_Card_July_600x600_02-300x300-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/hyperthyroidism_TW_Card_July_600x600_02-300x300-1-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/hyperthyroidism_TW_Card_July_600x600_02-300x300-1.jpg\" class=\"attachment-full size-full wp-image-4516 lazyload\" alt=\"Medical Illustration of Tryroid gland\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/hyperthyroidism_TW_Card_July_600x600_02-300x300-1.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/hyperthyroidism_TW_Card_July_600x600_02-300x300-1-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/noscript>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-370ad41 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"370ad41\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As playful as it might sound, this personified description from the thyroid gland itself highlights its important role in our daily lives.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h6><b><i>But really though, what\u2019s the thyroid gland (in fewer words)?<\/i><\/b><\/h6><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>thyroid gland<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, an important component of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cancer.gov\/publications\/dictionaries\/cancer-terms\/def\/endocrine-system\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">endocrine system<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, is a butterfly-shaped organ located at the base of the neck, just below the Adam\u2019s apple. Its primary role is to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC4044302\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">regulate numerous metabolic processes<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> throughout the body. This article delves into the functions, significance, and potential issues related to the thyroid, providing a clear and comprehensive understanding of this small yet powerful organ.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-dfac5c1 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"dfac5c1\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-6e66e4b\" data-id=\"6e66e4b\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7c5f1f2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"7c5f1f2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-9c0b2b0 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"9c0b2b0\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;_id&quot;:&quot;1ab183d&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image_tablet&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image_mobile&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_speed&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;%&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:50,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_type&quot;:&quot;scroll&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_direction&quot;:null,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_fx_direction&quot;:null,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_z_index&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x&quot;:50,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y&quot;:50,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size&quot;:&quot;auto&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_animation_prop&quot;:&quot;transform&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;,&quot;tablet&quot;]}]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1d93697\" data-id=\"1d93697\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2a57554 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2a57554\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">The structure and function of the thyroid<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-9199a5b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"9199a5b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The thyroid gland is relatively small, typically weighing between 15 to 25 grams in adults. It consists of two lobes connected by a narrow band of tissue known as the isthmus. The gland produces three major hormones: <\/span><b>thyroxine (T4)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>triiodothyronine (T3)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>calcitonin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The production and release of these hormones are regulated by the\u00a0 <\/span><b>thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> from the pituitary gland, which is located at the base of the brain.<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: These hormones play a critical role in regulating the body\u2019s metabolic rate, influencing how cells use energy. T4 and T3 help regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and the conversion of food into energy. Note that T4 is largely inactive and is converted into the more active T3 within cells.<\/span><\/li><li><b>Calcitonin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This hormone is involved in calcium and phosphorus metabolism. Its main function is to reduce calcium levels in the blood by inhibiting the release of calcium from bones, making it crucial for maintaining bone density and strength. Calcitonin acts in opposition to the <\/span><b>parathyroid hormone (PTH)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> released by the parathyroid glands located behind the thyroid gland.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-539cc07 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"539cc07\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-625c19e\" data-id=\"625c19e\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f2f4cf2 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"f2f4cf2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-e41961f elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"e41961f\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;_id&quot;:&quot;1ab183d&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image_tablet&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image_mobile&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_speed&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;%&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:50,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_type&quot;:&quot;scroll&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_direction&quot;:null,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_fx_direction&quot;:null,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_z_index&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x&quot;:50,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y&quot;:50,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size&quot;:&quot;auto&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_animation_prop&quot;:&quot;transform&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;,&quot;tablet&quot;]}]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-cb7e863\" data-id=\"cb7e863\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-db04fbe elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"db04fbe\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How is thyroid activity regulated?<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6ff1f8f elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"6ff1f8f\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As already mentioned, thyroid hormone release is controlled by TSH released from the pituitary gland. But this regulation is actually more complex, involving a feedback loop between the thyroid, pituitary gland, and the hypothalamus.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The hypothalamus, an area at the base of the brain, initiates the regulatory process by releasing <\/span><b>thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. TRH stimulates the pituitary gland to produce TSH, which in turn prompts the thyroid gland to produce and release T4 and T3. This process is controlled by the feedback loop known as the <\/span><b>hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where high levels of thyroid hormones inhibit the release of TRH and TSH, ensuring the balance of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-9e0a7c4 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"9e0a7c4\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-74945aa\" data-id=\"74945aa\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-01634a0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"01634a0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-97e8e45 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"97e8e45\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;_id&quot;:&quot;1ab183d&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image_tablet&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_image_mobile&quot;:{&quot;url&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;id&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:&quot;&quot;},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_speed&quot;:{&quot;unit&quot;:&quot;%&quot;,&quot;size&quot;:50,&quot;sizes&quot;:[]},&quot;jet_parallax_layout_type&quot;:&quot;scroll&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_direction&quot;:null,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_fx_direction&quot;:null,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_z_index&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x&quot;:50,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_x_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y&quot;:50,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_y_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size&quot;:&quot;auto&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size_tablet&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_bg_size_mobile&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_animation_prop&quot;:&quot;transform&quot;,&quot;jet_parallax_layout_on&quot;:[&quot;desktop&quot;,&quot;tablet&quot;]}]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-f16b298\" data-id=\"f16b298\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1ddacef elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1ddacef\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What happens when the thyroid is dysfunctional?<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-95a9aaf elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"95a9aaf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thyroid dysfunction usually results in some kind of thyroid disorder. Thyroid disorders are relatively common and can significantly impact an individual\u2019s quality of life. Generally, these conditions can either involve overproduction (hyperthyroidism) or underproduction (hypothyroidism) of thyroid hormones.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Hyperthyroidism<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much T4, T3, or both, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, increased heart rate, anxiety, tremors, and excessive sweating. Graves\u2019 disease, an autoimmune disorder, is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In <\/span><b>hypothyroidism<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, the thyroid does not produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, hair loss, constipation, and depression. The most common cause worldwide is iodine deficiency. However, in populations that are iodine-sufficient, Hashimoto\u2019s thyroiditis (an autoimmune condition) is the predominant cause of hypothyroidism.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beyond just hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, the term \u201cthyroid disorders\u201d reflects a range of thyroid issues that affect the gland&#8217;s structure, function, or both, often requiring distinct diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Some of these include:<\/span><\/p><ol><li><b>Thyroiditis<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Inflammation of the thyroid gland, which can occur in several forms such as Hashimoto\u2019s thyroiditis (an autoimmune form leading to hypothyroidism), subacute thyroiditis (de Quervain\u2019s, painful and possibly viral), and postpartum thyroiditis.<\/span><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-goiter\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Goiter<\/b><\/a>: An enlargement of the thyroid gland, which can be diffuse or nodular, and may occur with normal, increased, or decreased thyroid hormone production.<\/li><li><b>Thyroid nodules<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Lumps in the thyroid gland that can be benign or malignant; they may be solid or filled with fluid.<\/span><\/li><li><b>Thyroid cancer<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A malignant tumor of the thyroid gland; there are several types, including <\/span><b>papillary<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>follicular<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>medullary<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>anaplastic thyroid cancer<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-thyroid-storm\/\"><b>Thyroid storm<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A rare but severe and potentially life-threatening complication of hyperthyroidism, characterized by an extreme overproduction of thyroid hormones.<\/span><\/li><li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/understanding-myxedema-coma\/\"><b>Myxedema coma<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A rare and life-threatening condition, usually a severe progression of untreated hypothyroidism, characterized by poor circulation and hypothermia.<\/span><\/li><\/ol>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-0b0d054 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"0b0d054\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-80cd2d4\" data-id=\"80cd2d4\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c22e365 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"c22e365\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-522f48c elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"522f48c\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-003512b\" data-id=\"003512b\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6dc1d86 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"6dc1d86\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How are thyroid disorders diagnosed and treated?<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-c09dea5 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"c09dea5\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Diagnosing thyroid disorders typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/thyroid-function-tests\/#:~:text=thyroid%20panel%20entails.-,What%20are%20the%20types%20of%20thyroid%20tests%20and%20how%20are%20they%20relevant%3F,-TSH%20Test%C2%A0\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">laboratory tests<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The most common tests measure the levels of TSH, T4, and T3 in the blood. High TSH levels usually indicate hypothyroidism, while low TSH levels suggest hyperthyroidism.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treatment depends on the type of disorder. For example, here\u2019s how treatments for hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism differ:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hyperthyroidism<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may be managed with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/taking-thyroid-medication\/#:~:text=%C2%A9%20ThyForLife%20Assets-,Medication%20for%20hyperthyroidism,-The%20most%20common\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">medications<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that inhibit hormone production, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/radioactive-iodine-therapy\/#:~:text=The%20therapy%20is,treating%20thyroid%20cancer.\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">radioactive iodine therapy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to destroy overactive cells, or <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/thyroidectomy-101-t\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">surgery<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to remove part of the gland.<\/span><\/li><li><b>Hypothyroidism<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is generally treated with <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/taking-thyroid-medication\/#:~:text=Medication%20for%20hyperthyroidism-,Medication%20for%20hypothyroidism,-The%20standard%20thyroid\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">daily hormone replacement therapy<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, specifically synthetic T4 (levothyroxine).<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-f0419d7 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"f0419d7\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-de563ed\" data-id=\"de563ed\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6599b16 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"6599b16\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-96bbe23 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"96bbe23\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1c27e1b\" data-id=\"1c27e1b\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7b05352 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"7b05352\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How can thyroid health be promoted and maintained?<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-79c174d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"79c174d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To promote and maintain thyroid health, a balanced diet is fundamental. This diet should include adequate amounts of iodine, found in seafood and iodized salt, which is crucial for thyroid hormone production. Selenium and zinc, available in nuts, whole grains, and dairy, also support thyroid function.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular medical checkups are also essential to monitor thyroid health, particularly for those living with thyroid disorders, and those who are at <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/are-you-at-risk-for-thyroid-problems-take-control-with-these-6-measures\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">risk for developing thyroid disease<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Lifestyle measures such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and moderating intake of soy and cruciferous vegetables (which can interfere with thyroid function when consumed in large quantities) are also beneficial.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additionally, managing overall health through regular exercise, stress reduction, and avoiding excessive exposure to radiation and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/common-chemicals-harming-your-thyroid\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">environmental toxins<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can support thyroid health.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-30d6741 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"30d6741\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-801bda3\" data-id=\"801bda3\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-75687e9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"75687e9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-a1cbbf9 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"a1cbbf9\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;jet_parallax_layout_list&quot;:[]}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-a86435c\" data-id=\"a86435c\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1e4075e elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1e4075e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Key Takeaways<\/h2>\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ecab45c elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ecab45c\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating numerous bodily functions through hormone production.\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding its function, the conditions affecting it, and the available treatments provides a foundation for managing thyroid health effectively.\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As always, consulting healthcare providers for diagnosis and personalized treatment plans is essential for addressing thyroid-related issues.<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A Quick Word From Your Thyroid \u201cHello! I\u2019m your thyroid gland, and my job is pretty important for keeping you feeling energetic and ready for your day. I produce hormones like T4 and T3 that set the pace for how your body uses energy. Think of me as a thermostat that regulates your body\u2019s metabolism. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12,"featured_media":5259,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4514","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-latest-research"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What is the thyroid?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn what a thyroid is, what it does, and how to promote a healthy thyroid. 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ThyForLife&#039;s platform supports all thyroid conditions.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"ThyForLife\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2020-06-13T09:30:18+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2024-06-20T17:40:29+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Thyroid-What-is-it.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"628\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Daniel Amoah\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Daniel Amoah\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Daniel Amoah\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/#\/schema\/person\/fe5facd80f2feb6b7b51d6c1f0338216\"},\"headline\":\"What is the thyroid?\",\"datePublished\":\"2020-06-13T09:30:18+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-06-20T17:40:29+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/\"},\"wordCount\":1119,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Thyroid-What-is-it.jpg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Latest Research\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-CA\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/\",\"name\":\"What is the thyroid?\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/what-is-the-thyroid\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.thyforlife.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/01\/Thyroid-What-is-it.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2020-06-13T09:30:18+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2024-06-20T17:40:29+00:00\",\"description\":\"Learn what a thyroid is, what it does, and how to promote a healthy thyroid. 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