Alcohol and Thyroid

[fairyeyes]

Not read anywhere that says alcohol can have bad effects on thyroid,is this correct as i do enjoy an odd drink.Thank you.

[Clutter]

Fairyeyes, Alcohol can suppress thyroid function, but may also be protective in some respects. I intend to continue enjoying my occasional drinks.

Abstract

Alcohol is one of the commonest illicit psychoactive substances consumed globally and is the world's third largest risk factor for disease and disability. It has been reported to have multiple effects on the hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid axis and the functioning of the thyroid gland. It has been reported to cause direct suppression of thyroid function by cellular toxicity, and indirect suppression by blunting thyrotropin-releasing hormone response. It causes a decrease of peripheral thyroid hormones during chronic use and in withdrawal. Alcohol use may also confer some protective effect against thyroid nodularity, goiter, and thyroid cancer. This article presents a review of the clinically relevant effects of alcohol on the functioning of the thyroid gland and also discusses the effect of medication used in treatment of alcohol dependence on thyroid function.

ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/239...

[greygoose]

I've never had any bad effects from alcohol. I Don't drink much. I just like a gin and tonic before a special meal, and some wine with the meal - maybe a glass of champagne with the dessert. lol But that doesn't happen every day of the year - not even every month - but I've never found it to be anything more than relaxing.

However... we're all different, and I know some people do find alcohol affects them badly. So, the only way to find out what effect it has on you, is to try it...

[Treepie]

My balance problems were put down to liver damage from alcohol,but I suspect low B.12 was a big factor as I have somewhat improved balance.