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Men, Your Thyroid Matters: Boost Vitality This Men’s Health Week


Blue graphic for Men's Health Month with symbols like a tie, crown, and mustache on a globe. Text: "Take Control of Your Health, June."




June marks National Men’s Health Week—a timely reminder to prioritize aspects of wellness that often go unnoticed.


One such critical yet frequently overlooked component is thyroid health.







🧠 Understanding the Thyroid’s Role in Men’s Health


Illustration of a human neck highlighting the thyroid gland and trachea. The gland is pink, trachea is brown, set against a neutral background.

The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck, is pivotal in regulating: 


  • Metabolism: Influences how your body utilizes energy.

  • Hormonal Balance: Affects testosterone levels and other hormones.

  • Mental Clarity: Impacts cognitive functions and mood.

  • Physical Performance: Plays a role in muscle strength and endurance. 



When the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism), it can disrupt these functions, leading to symptoms that may be mistakenly attributed to aging or lifestyle factors.


⚠️ Recognizing the Signs: Common Symptoms in Men

A collage of four men: stressed at a desk, clutching a waist, looking thoughtful with puzzle pieces, and inspecting hair loss in a mirror.

Men with thyroid dysfunction may experience: 


  • Persistent Fatigue: Feeling tired despite adequate rest.


  • Weight Fluctuations: Unexplained weight gain or loss.


  • Mood Changes: Depression, irritability, or anxiety.


  • Cognitive Difficulties: Brain fog or memory issues.


  • Low Libido: Reduced sexual desire or performance issues.


  • Hair Thinning: Noticeable hair loss or changes in hair texture.



These symptoms can significantly impact quality of life but are often overlooked or dismissed.


📊 The Gender Disparity in Thyroid Disorders


While thyroid disorders are more prevalent in women, men are not immune. According to the American Thyroid Association:


  • Women are 5 to 8 times more likely than men to have thyroid problems. 


  • An estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease, with up to 60% unaware of their condition. 


This lack of awareness can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment in men, exacerbating health issues.


🔍 Why Men Should Pay Attention


Thyroid health is integral to overall well-being. An underactive thyroid can lead to decreased testosterone levels, affecting muscle mass, energy, and sexual health. Conversely, an overactive thyroid can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, and weight loss.


✅ Actionable Steps to Support Thyroid Health


Doctor consults a patient; nuts and seeds labeled in bowls; person meditates indoors; cleaning supplies with hazard symbols.

  1. Regular Screening: Discuss thyroid function tests with your healthcare provider, especially if you exhibit symptoms.

  2. Balanced Nutrition: Ensure adequate intake of iodine, selenium, and zinc—nutrients essential for thyroid function.

  3. Manage Stress: Chronic stress can impact thyroid health; incorporate stress-reducing practices like meditation or exercise.

  4. Avoid Environmental Toxins: Limit exposure to substances that can disrupt endocrine function, such as BPA and certain pesticides.

  5. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about thyroid health to recognize early signs and seek timely intervention.

🗓️ Embrace Men’s Health Week as a Catalyst for Change


Use this week as an opportunity to assess and prioritize your thyroid health. Early detection and proactive management can lead to improved energy levels, mood, and overall vitality.






Graves’ Disease. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Updated 2021. Accessed June 9, 2022. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/endocrine-diseases/graves-disease

Mincer DL, Jialal I. Hashimoto Thyroiditis. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; September 28, 2021.Thyroid symptoms in men: Yes, thyroid can affect men as well! September 27, 2018. Sitaram Bhartia Institute of Science & Research. 2021. Accessed June 12, 2022. https://www.sitarambhartia.org/blog/ endocrinology/thyroid-symptoms-in-men/; Shomon, Mary. An Overview of Thyroid Disease in Men. January 20, 2022. Verywell Health. Dotdash Media, Inc. 2022. Accessed June 12, 2022. https://www. verywellhealth.com/thyroid-disease-in-men-3886166

Mullur R, Liu YY, Brent GA. Thyroid hormone regulation of metabolism. Physiol Rev. 2014;94(2):355-382. doi:10.1152/physrev.00030.2013

Campos, Pauline. A Growing Gut, a Sinking Sex Drive, and 7 Other Signs Your Thyroid Hormones Are Too Low. Nov 20, 2017. Accessed June 9, 2022.


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