THEO Sport is good for everyone. And on this we all agree, but in the presence of thyroid disorders it must be practiced carefully. An altered thyroid function affects the ability to train and recover. Conversely, a sport practiced correctly can improve hormonal balance. As a result, help this small endocrine gland located at the base of the neck. She is the responsible for the production of hormones that regulate metabolism, energy and thermoregulation. And our mood …
Can you do sports if the thyroid is on tilt? Yes, but …
«Those who have a thyroid disorder can practice sports, but it is necessary to carefully evaluate the type of dysfunction and the level of compensation of hormones »explains the doctor Serena Missori, Endocrinologist, diabetologist and author of the books “The diet of the biotypieth thyroid” and “thyroid-intestine axis”. “It is fundamental adapt physical activity To the clinical condition and the biotype of the person »clarifies the expert. That’s why those who have thyroid problems, or are being treated for some disorder connected to this gland, not only has to visit for sports activities with a sports doctor. But he must speak with his endocrinologist to evaluate the type e together “The quantity” of sports activities that can perform.
The effects of sport on the thyroid
Several scientific studies have highlighted how sport, if performed in a balanced and controlled way, can positively influence the thyroid function. Here are the most important benefits that physical activity can produce on this gland:
- Favors the conversion of the T4 hormone in T3, Thanks to the activation of the enzyme deiodinase, thus improving cellular metabolism.
- Modula the hypothalamic-pituitary-tiroid axismaking the system more sensitive to hormonal feedback and optimizing TSH production.
- Increases basal metabolismgenerating a greater request for hormonal activation.
- Contributes to the Stress managementbut only if practiced with measure. The excess of operating, in fact, can raise the levels of cortisol, negatively interfering with the thyroid function.
Which sport is better to choose
«Moderate physical activity supports the thyroid, but when it becomes too intense it can cause an adaptive block. The body enters one condition of metabolic stress Which can suppress the thyroid function, especially in the case of subclinical hypothyroidism »explains Dr. Missori. The choice of physical activity must therefore not only follow personal tastes. Or motor skills. Must also take into account that type of problems have to the thyroid, but also of the general health status of the person and its training level. That’s why the following indications must be seen as general tips, which can be useful for guiding in the choice of the best sport.
Yoga is a sport that is good even if you suffer from thyroid (Getty Images)
If you suffer from hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism involves an acceleration of the metabolism Basal. This can translate into loss of muscle mass, rapid fatigue, tachycardia and heat intolerance. All elements that reduce the ability to support prolonged physical effort. “During the thyroid dismissal phase, the sports activity is not recommended,” says Dr. Missori. «The heart is already subjected to important stress and sport risks increasing cardiovascular risk. Relaxing disciplines should be preferred like Yoga, pilates or simple body free body exercises»The expert concludes.
If you suffer from hypothyroidism
On the contrary, hypothyroidism slows down the metabolism, promotes weight gain, causes fatigue and worsens muscle recovery. «In the failure phase, when the TSH is high and the symptoms are present, it is better to suspend the intense activity. But as soon as the values normalize, sport becomes A precious ally To reactivate metabolism and muscle tone »underlines the expert. «Recommended activities include moderate aerobic exercises (Walk, light race, rope) and resistance trainingfundamental to counteract muscle loss and stimulate metabolic balance “concludes the endocrinologist.
Autoimmune thyroiditis: sport yes, but compensated
In Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and other autoimmune forms, exercise is useful for improving the inflammatory response and general well -being, provided that the hormonal function is compensated. «Physical activity is contraindicated only in the presence of hypothyroidism or untreated hyperthyroidism. If hormonal values are normal, all sports can be practiced: Running, bikes, yoga, weights, pilates. The important thing is to listen to the body and modulate the intensity »recommends Dr. Missori.
Thyroid nodules: more attention with sport
In the case of voluminous or goiter nodules, physical activity can be limited, especially if breathing is even slightly hindered. «If the nodules compress the trachea, Any activity must be avoided that involves the compression of the neck, Like weight lifting with high loads. Priority is always respiratory safety “specifies the endocrinologist. After a thyroidectomy, that is, after surgery that has completely or in part the thyroid instead or in part, it is necessary to wait for hormonal values to be stabilized with replacement therapy. “Once you reach balance, sport can be resumed without problems and becomes fundamental to maintain weight, muscle mass and vitality” explains the specialist.
How to choose physical activity
A common mistake is associate the type of sport with the type of thyroid pathology. According to Dr. Missori, this approach is limiting. «Sport should not be chosen according to the diagnosis, but based on the biotype of the person, that is, its psycho-physical constitution. There are those who need activation and those who, on the other hand, need calm and centering ». For more anxious or agitated subjects, relaxing activities are ideal; For those who tend to metabolic slowdown, they are more effective aerobic or strength sports.
Two concepts not to be forgotten
An often neglected aspect concerns the effect of physical activity on microbiota Intestinal, which in turn affects thyroid health. «Many thyroid disorders are associated with intestinal dysbiosis. Sport, together with a targeted nutrition, It can rebalance the microbiota of the intestine and support the immune system “concludes Dr. Missori. Regular physical activity, if well dosed, helps to improve the well -being of the intestine and therefore the hormonal balance. However, it must always be evaluated by a professional, especially in the presence of dysfunctions. “Sport is a very powerful hormonal modulator, but does not replace the therapy,” recalls Missori. “It must be integrated carefully, listening to the signals of the body and always acting with awareness” concludes the expert.
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