The thyroid is the largest endocrine gland of the body, with an important role in the development and harmonious functioning of the body. It is located at the level of the anterior cervical region in a fibrous box weighing approximately 15-25 g and is composed of 2 lobes located on each side of the trachea united by a small tissue bridge called the isthmus.

What does thyroid dysfunction mean?

Lack of iodine (geoclimatic deficit leading to the emergence of endemic goose), poor nutrition, daily stress, radiation exposure, as well as family predisposition favors the appearance of thyroid disorders, disorders that can occur at birth, adolescence, menopause and after 60 years of age. . Thyroid disorders are generally more common in women than in men. Most of the time, women ignore their symptoms, putting them on account of other conditions (menopause or depression). There is also an increased risk of developing thyroid disorders after pregnancy.

The thyroid gland may malfunction either by excessive release of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism) or by inadequate release (hypothyroidism), or may present structural changes (benign or malignant nodules), changes that may or may not affect the proper functioning of the gland.

Hypothyroidism and physical activity

Hypothyroidism involves insufficient production of thyroid hormones, with repercussions on body functions, which are practically slowed down. A common cause of hypothyroidism in adults is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, which involves an autoimmune reaction of the body that produces oantibodies against the thyroid, affecting its integrity. Fortunately, this medical problem has a solution in the substitution treatment. Practicing a sport in the case of an untreated hypothyroid patient is difficult. They will not have the energy and strength to perform the simplest physical exercises. Despite physical exertion, people with hypothyroidism will not be able to lose weight. In the case of those who are properly treated, sport is not a problem as long as there are no other contraindications.

Hyperthyroidism and sports

Hyperthyroidism involves an increased serum level of thyroid hormones. A common pathology is represented by Graves’ disease (autoimmune disease with chronic evolution), which implies a continuous stimulation of the gland to secrete and synthesize large quantities of T4 and T3. Also, hyperthyroidism may also be caused by the presence of nodular formations, by the over-treatment of hypothyroidism, due to the existence of an inflammatory process (thyroiditis) with an overproduction of thyroid hormones and their release into the bloodstream, secondary to iodine overload (the cause commonly found in iodine elderly patients with polynodular goiter) or among those who are given contrast products with high iodine content. In the case of patients with hyperthyroidism, it is recommended to avoid sports during the active period of the disease. In these cases, the excess of thyroid hormones puts the heart at a stress over which the physical activity would come as an additional load. Moreover, patients with hyperthyroidism suffer from pain and muscle weakness, which is another reason why sports should not be performed during the acute period of the disease. When the disease is under control, patients can play sports, but sustained physical exercises with a high degree of difficulty should be avoided.

Best sports for thyroid problems

Walking: One of the easiest workouts to do. All you need is a pair of comfortable shoes. It gets your heart pumping and burns about 280 calories an hour.

Water aerobics: If you have swelling in your ankles or feet, some exercises may be painful. Water aerobics is a good option. The water holds you up and lowers the impact on your joints.

Yoga: This can stretch and strengthen your muscles. It also helps you focus on breathing. One study found that people with hypothyroidism had better lung strength after practicing yoga breathing for 6 months.

While medication from your doctor is the only way to help your body make more hormones, exercise can help some of the problems that come with hypothyroidism.