When levels of thyroid hormone are persistently low a condition referred to as hypothyroidism - it is akin to having the thermostat on a furnace set too low. In that circumstance, the fuel is not being burned at a normal or sufficient rate, and there is not sufficient energy or heat being produced. The building is not being kept warm enough. Checking one’s temperature routinely may indicate whether the thyroid is functioning properly.

In a corresponding fashion, where people do not produce sufficient thyroid hormone to keep the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates burning at a normal rate, they too, will not be generating enough energy or heat. Often they, too, will feel cold. And much of the time they will feel fatigued and weak. Also, because they are not burning carbohydrates and fats at a normal rate, they will find themselves gaining weight in the form of stored fat.

Since the thyroid affects the body's metabolism as a whole, it also has a depressing effect on the production of certain necessary proteins, further weakening the body.

Where there is insufficient production of thyroid hormone, there is very often an accompanying weakening of the immune system. Which is why people with low levels of thyroid hormone are much more susceptible to colds, flu, and other viruses.

A number of other symptoms may accompany hypothyroidism, including a slower heart rate, high cholesterol levels, dry skin, a tendency to cramp, headaches, and infertility and menstrual difficulties in women.

Because many of the symptoms of hypothyroidism are similar to those that occur in the aging process, thyroid deficiencies sometimes go overlooked. We have seen that HGH has a singular effect on the levels of thyroid hormone, and that by increasing our levels of HGH we may also bring about increased levels of thyroid hormone as well. However, more pronounced thyroid hormone deficiencies are best corrected with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Treatment with thyroid hormone has shown itself to be highly effective in bringing the body's metabolism back into normal limits, and thereby reducing or limiting the above mentioned symptoms. This is especially so in regard to restoring normal body temperature, energy levels, and weight control.

All such replacement therapy, however, should be monitored and carried out under the care of a medical doctor.