Shin Bong-sun, who lost 11kg, says, "My female hormones have dropped, and I'm upset"... Is the cause 'this disease'?

Comedian Shin Bong-sun revealed that she is battling hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).

A disease caused by insufficient thyroid hormone...

Manifestations include chronic fatigue, loss of appetite, and constipation due to metabolic disorders.

Shin Bong-sun's hypothyroidism is a condition where the butterfly-shaped thyroid gland located in the neck area fails to produce the necessary amount of thyroid hormones. In short, it is a state of decreased or deficient thyroid hormone levels. It often occurs after thyroid surgery, radioactive isotope therapy, and similar treatments.

Thyroid hormones regulate the body's metabolism and play a role in actively promoting metabolic functions. They produce heat through energy metabolism to maintain body temperature and are essential for the development of the brain and nervous system. Therefore, a deficiency of these hormones leads to metabolic disorders, impairing the body's overall metabolic functions.

Symptoms caused by decreased metabolic function are very diverse, but in adults, common signs include chronic fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight gain. This is because the function of mitochondria, which produce energy in the body, is impaired, leading to easily feeling tired.

Constipation or sensitivity to cold can occur. Symptoms such as dry skin, muscle pain, and memory decline also appear. As Shin Bong-sun mentioned, thyroid abnormalities also affect female hormone levels. Not only women, but also male and female sex hormones are adversely affected, increasing the risk of infertility. In women, it causes ovulation disorders and decreases sperm count and semen quality in men.

Treatment should be done by supplementing thyroid hormones...

You should also include iodine-rich foods such as rye bread and fish.

Treatment involves supplementing the deficient thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism tends to persist permanently once it occurs, so lifelong thyroid hormone medication is necessary. While there may be resistance to taking medication continuously, long-term use does not cause side effects.

Lifestyle habit improvement is also necessary. To maintain weight, appropriate calorie intake and sufficient hydration are essential. Consistently consuming fruits and vegetables rich in dietary fiber is also important. It is good to include iodine-rich foods such as rye bread, fish, seaweed, and eggs. Moderate exercise helps boost the body's metabolic functions.