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What is thyroid stimulating hormone?

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced by your pituitary gland following the secretion of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. Once released into the bloodstream TSH is responsible for stimulating the thyroid gland to produce hormones T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine). T4 is inactive and is thus converted to the active T3 form mainly in the liver, but also in the kidneys, brain, and other organs. In a negative feedback mechanism, circulating T3 inhibits both TRH and TSH release. A change in your TSH level can be an early sign of a thyroid problem.

Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
EndocrineSurgeon.co.uk

Why is TSH important?

Tracking your TSH levels allows you to understand the health of your thyroid gland, which is an integral part of your endocrine system. The thyroid gland’s chief function is to regulate metabolism but also plays an important role in maintaining normal growth and development, body temperature, and energy levels. Because of its significance, TSH is included in SiPhox Health‘s foundation panel.

How can I better understand my TSH levels?

According to UCLA Health:

  • Very low: 0-.5 uIU/mL
  • Low: .5-1 uIU/mL
  • Optimal: 1-2 uIU/mL
  • High: 2-5.0 uIU/mL
  • Very high: >5 uIU/mL

Ranges specific to the Cardiometabolic Program:

  • Optimal: .45-5.33 uIU/mL
  • Pay attention: >5.33 uIU/mL
  • Alert: >10 uIU/mL

Although for those who are pregnant, have a history of thyroid cancer and/or pituitary gland disease, or are older, the normal range may be different. If you are concerned with your levels, it is important to consult with your physician.

High TSH may point to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland) whereas low TSH may point to hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland). Symptoms of hypothyroidism include lethargy, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, thinning hair, constipation, and other physical and mental issues. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism on the other hand include weight loss, rapid or irregular heartbeat, increased hunger, and anxiousness among other issues. There are a variety of other conditions that abnormal TSH levels may indicate, including Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s disease to name a few.

Like many hormones, TSH follows a circadian rhythm with maximal concentrations overnight and minimal in the evening. As such, testing TSH in the morning compared to in the afternoon may help detect hypothyroidism in individuals who would otherwise appear normal due to rhythmic fluctuation.

How can I maintain optimal TSH levels?

If you need to maintain or adjust your TSH levels, consider the following strategies:

Dietary Changes: Avoiding excess iodine intake and following an elimination/reducing diet can help to lower elevated TSH levels. Adhering to a Mediterranean diet, following a vegetarian diet, and increasing intake of asparagine and serine can aid in increasing TSH levels.

Lifestyle Changes: Quitting smoking, exercising more regularly, and improving sleep quality can help improve elevated TSH levels.

Supplementation: Various supplements can help improve TSH levels. Co-supplementing with myoinositol and selenium or with zinc, vitamin A, and magnesium can help to lower TSH levels. Ashwagandha root extract can help with this as well. If your TSH levels are low, you can try supplementing with vitamin D, bugleweed, lemon balm, CoQ10, or vitamin E.

Where can I learn more?

DISCLAIMER: IF YOU ARE CONCERNED WITH ANY OF YOUR RESULTS, PLEASE CONSULT WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN.