Thyroid Biology in Health & Aging | Diana van Heemst | 209

Feb 14, 2025

Dr. Diana van Heemst, a biologist at Leiden University Medical Center specializing in aging, dives into the fascinating world of thyroid biology. She discusses how the thyroid gland influences metabolism, energy regulation, and overall health. Listeners learn about the crucial roles of thyroid hormones T3 and T4, the importance of nutrients like iodine and selenium, and the implications of thyroid conditions on longevity. The conversation explores thyroid function variations, the impact of aging on hormone health, and the significance of early detection for well-being.

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INSIGHT

Thyroid Gland Overview

The thyroid gland, located at the base of the neck, plays a crucial role in metabolism, growth, and development.
It's found in all vertebrates and likely co-evolved with the head, potentially offering advantages to predators.

INSIGHT

Iodine and Thyroid Function

Iodine is crucial for thyroid hormone synthesis, making seafood, dairy, and iodized salt good sources.
Iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism, historically common in inland populations.

INSIGHT

Thyroid Hormones

The thyroid gland produces T4 (tetraiodothyronine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) hormones.
T3, the active form, is converted from T4 inside cells and regulates metabolism.

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Short Summary: Thyroid biology, offering insights into its role in metabolism, development, and longevity, making it a fascinating listen for those interested in how our bodies manage energy and health across the lifespan.

Guest: Diana van Heemst, PhD is a biologist at Leiden University Medical Center, specializing in gerontology and geriatrics. Her research focuses on the neuroendocrine biology of aging and longevity in humans, particularly involving thyroid functions.

Note: Podcast episodes are fully available to paid subscribers on the M&M Substack and to everyone on YouTube. Partial versions are available elsewhere. Full transcript and other information on Substack.

Full Summary: Dr. Diana van Heemst explores the thyroid's critical role in metabolism, growth, development, and transitions across life stages. It discusses the thyroid's evolutionary history, its location in the neck, and how it functions through hormone secretion, specifically T3 and T4. The conversation covers the importance of nutrients like iodine and selenium, the impact of thyroid hormone on various bodily functions, and the implications for health conditions like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. It also touches on how thyroid activity might relate to longevity.

Key Takeaways:

Thyroid Hormones: T3 and T4 are crucial, with T3 being the active form that regulates metabolism, heart rate, and cognitive functions.
Iodine and Selenium: Essential for thyroid hormone synthesis; iodine is unique to thyroid hormones, while selenium is vital for the enzymes that regulate hormone availability.
Hypothyroidism vs. Hyperthyroidism: Hypothyroidism is more common, especially in older age due to autoimmune issues, leading to symptoms like fatigue and cold sensitivity. Hyperthyroidism can result from iodine excess or autoimmune conditions like Graves' disease.
Developmental Role: Thyroid hormones are vital for major developmental transitions, from birth to puberty, impacting brain development and metabolic adaptation.

*Not medical advice.

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