Thyroid, Adrenal Glands and Sex Hormones

Thyroid Levels

Having well-balanced thyroid levels are crucial to maintaining and improving activity levels, training and performance. Your thyroid hormones play an important role in metabolism, energy production and expenditure, the ability to handle higher intensity exercise, strength, bone health, heart function and temperature regulation. Remember, your thyroid does not act alone and is impacted by and can impact your sex hormones and adrenal glands.

Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction in athletes

Mental fog
fatigue
weakness
poor hair/skin
puffy
constipation
poor sleep
new onset snoring
menstrual changes
increased body fat
low body temp
palpitations
heart rate changes

thyroid functions

Adrenal Function

Our bodies adapt to any form of stress (from training, school, family-life, work, etc.) by increasing the production of cortisol. Similar to your detoxification system, if your adrenal glands are working properly and in concert with your other hormone systems (thyroid and adrenals), you can handle and respond to the stress. However, if your cortisol levels increase too much and you are not able to clear it, this will lead to adrenal dysfunction and ultimately underperformance.

Symptoms of adrenal dysfunction in athletes

Cravings
poor sleep
wired but tired
elevated morning heart rate
underperformance
weight gain/loss
new food intolerances
recurrent viral infections
joint pain
puffy under the eyes

adrenal glad diagram related to the brain and pituitary gland

Sex Hormones

Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone are the sex hormones. All three are present in both male and female athletes. The right balance and levels are important in maintaining bone and cardiovascular health as well as impacting strength and endurance.

Symptoms of hormonal dysfunction in athletes

Female: Irregular or missed menstrual cycles; heavy bleeding, PMS (cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, mood swings, headaches); infertility; acne; body weight fluctuation; difficulty putting on muscle
Male & Female: Loss of power, strength, speed, and/or endurance; loss of libido; fatigue, infertility; loss of will power; poor recovery; loss of lean muscle mass; increased body fat

sex hormones - estrogen, testosterone and progesterone

Visit NMotion for your next physical wellness appointment to get the help you need with adrenal and thyroid dysfunction.