Hypothyroidism and Hypercholesterolemia in Women.

The thyroid-cholesterol connection. Evidence of low thyroid levels and cardiovascular disease has been increasing. The impact of thyroid hormone on lipid levels is mediated through T3 bound thyroid protein binding. When T3 levels decrease in hypothyroidism, this can result in an increase in serum cholesterol. Research suggests that even improving modest levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone elevations (which happen as a result of hypothyroidism) lead to improved lipid profiles. Low thyroid levels cause fatigue, depression and unexplained weight gain.

Feld S, Dickey RA. An Association Between Varying Degrees of Hypothyroidism and Hypercholesterolemia in Women: The Thyroid Cholesterol Connection. Prev Cardiol. 2001 Autumn;4(4):179-182.

Just because your thyroid levels are “normal” by laboratory standards it does not mean your levels are optimal for cholesterol maintenance.

Jason & Rita