December 05, 2022 4 min read
The side effects of thyroid problems can be difficult to connect or trace back to the true cause. Depending on what kind of thyroid issue you have, it can result in a number of unique symptoms caused by fluctuating thyroid hormone levels.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. The collagen protein, a fibrous structural protein, can be found all throughout the body in the connective tissues. This includes the skin, muscles, joints, blood vessels, gut lining, and more. Collagen levels are highest leading up to our mid-twenties. From there, collagen production slows and the common signs of aging start to show up. Joint pain, muscle atrophy, digestive issues, wrinkled skin, and hair loss can often be correlated with a decrease in collagen. Many of these symptoms/signs of aging also overlap with the symptoms of thyroid disorders.
The thyroid, on the other hand, is a small gland located in the neck. It produces two hormones called triiodothyronine, also called T3, as well as thyroxine, or T4 for short. Some studies have shown that poor thyroid health and an imbalance of these hormones can inhibit collagen synthesis and may explain why many of the symptoms of thyroid disorders mirror those of collagen deficiency.
Collagen supplements made of pure hydrolyzed collagen contain amino acids glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. When consumed, collagen is broken down into these amino acids and absorbed by the body. These amino acids then stimulate further collagen synthesis and may help to increase collagen production levels overall. Collagen may be able to help manage thyroid disorders and their symptoms by:
Today, collagen supplements come in many different forms. Bone broth is one of the few, true dietary sources of collagen. However, collagen can be hydrolyzed into powders that can suit your dietary preferences and applications.
Forms of collagen that should be passed up include liquid collagen (diluted collagen), collagen creams (cannot penetrate the skin barrier), and bottled collagen (easy to DIY).
If you are already taking thyroid medication, you should consult a healthcare professional before adding a collagen supplement to your diet. Blood tests can be performed to see if you are deficient in other nutrients such as vitamin D or calcium. Together, these supplements and a few healthy habits may be able to improve the symptoms of thyroid disorders without the side effects commonly paired with thyroid medications.
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Poor thyroid health and an imbalance of these hormones can inhibit collagen synthesis and may explain why many of the symptoms of thyroid disorders mirror those of collagen deficiency.
Supplementing with collagen may improve the gut barrier function and prevent harmful pathogens from entering the bloodstream.
Cortisol, the stress hormone, can inhibit the liver from converting T4 into T3; however, glycine, an amino acid found in collagen, is known to reduce the harmful effects of cortisol.
Marine Collagen is the most bioavailable form of collagen and is derived from the skins of fish. It is also pescatarian-friendly.
Not all collagen is created equal. Liquid collagen (diluted collagen), collagen creams (cannot penetrate the skin barrier), and bottled collagen (easy to DIY) are often not worth the money.
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