thyroid function and metabolism in smoking cessation
THYROID AND METABOLISM IN SMOKING CESSATION
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The thyroid is a sensitive organ in our neck that plays a role in many processes within our body including metabolism. To function properly the thyroid requires copper, iron, selenium and iodine. Smokers are commonly deficient in selenium and while copper levels are elevated in smokers, it’s remains unclear what happens to copper levels in cessation, although my theory is copper levels drop as the exposure is reduced by quitting smoking.
People who take thyroid medications will tell you that the slightest alteration in diet or thyroid medication can swing your body into constant awake mode, weight loss and high energy or into a state of fatigue, lethargy and weight gain.
The thyroid is so sensitive that many doctors caution about taking too much iodine as it could lead to permanent thyroid damage. There are studies indicating the impact of smoking on thyroid function suggesting that smoking is related to hyperthyroidism and cessation is related to hypothryroidism. ( 1 ) This study suggests that hypothyroidism is the cause of weight gain and other withdrawal symptoms of quitting smoking. ( 2 )
I take iodine (225 mcg) and selenium first thing every morning for metabolism and energy and it works great. I may take a second iodine an hour later if it doesn’t, but I never exceed two in one day. The upper limit for iodine is 1100mcg.
That said, if you have concerns about your thyroid or supplementing, speak with your doctor about it, you may even consider having tests run.