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The Effect of Excess Caffeine on Thyroid Function

Several factors can affect the functioning of your thyroid or the treatment of your thyroid condition, one of which is caffeine consumption. It is important to pay attention to the amount of caffeine you take in when concerned about your thyroid.

  1. Beta Blockers

    • If you are taking beta blockers as part of your treatment program for hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, caffeine could be interfering. Caffeine can interact negatively with beta blockers and cause their efficiency level to decrease.

    Weight Loss

    • Excess caffeine intake has been associated with weight loss, since it increases the oxidation of fat. Caffeinated green tea can promote weight loss in hypothyroid patients who have experienced weight gain due to their underactive thyroid.

    Sleep

    • If you have an underactive thyroid and suffer from fibromyalgia, you may be having sleep problems. The quality of your sleep is only further impaired by excess caffeine consumption. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening.

    Rapid Heart Rate

    • Rapid heart rate is one of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism that can also be explained by excessive caffeine consumption. Caffeine increases your resting pulse rate and can exacerbate rapid heart rate.

    T4 and TSH

    • Caffeine has been shown to stimulate T4, one of the hormones that is specific to thyroid production, and TSH, or thyroid stimulating hormone. However, there is not enough evidence to support caffeine as a supplement or therapy for thyroid problems.

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