How is the thyroid gland important?

Answer 1

The thyroid glands secrete thyroid hormone (and calcitonin, but it doesn't seem to be terribly important in humans), whose major role is to regulate basal metabolic rate (BMR). It does this indirectly by causing the synthesis of proteins called sodium-potassium pumps that use a lot of energy to make sure that the right electrolytes are distributed inside and outside of cells. The activity of the sodium-potassium pumps account for about 50% of your body's energy requirements at rest.

Answer 2

The thyroid gland or simply, the thyroid in vertebrate anatomy, is one of the largest endocrine glands. The thyroid gland is found in the neck, below the thyroid cartilage.

Thyroid gland makes and stores hormones that help regulate the heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and the rate at which food is converted into energy. Thyroid hormones are essential for the function of every cell in the body. They help regulate growth and the rate of chemical reactions (metabolism) in the body. Thyroid hormones also help children grow and develop.

The thyroid uses iodine, a mineral found in some foods and in iodized salt, to make its hormones. The two most important thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), which is produced by the pituitary gland, acts to stimulate hormone production by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland also makes the hormone calcitonin, which is involved in calcium metabolism and stimulating bone cells to add calcium to bone.

Answer 3

It is an endocrine (hormone-producing) gland that produces thyroxine which controls the body's metabolism (the rate at which the cells work).

An overactive thyroid can mean:

• Weight loss
• Rapid heart rate
• Sweating
• Nervousness
• Inflamed thyroid

An under-active thyroid can mean:

• Weight gain
• Cold feeling
• Dry, flaky skin
• Voice change
• Hair loss
• Constipation

Answer 4

The primary role of the thyroid is to regulate the body's metabolism.

Answer 5

Thyroid gland metabolism and keeps the whole body functioning properly.

Answer 6

The primary function of the thyroid gland is to produce thyroid hormones that regulate the metabolism of every single cell in the body.