A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism shows that teens aged 12-21 are more susceptible than the general population to environmental contaminants that affect the thyroid. These contaminants are potentially harmful for the endocrine system of all humans, but this study has found that teenagers demonstrate more profound effects.
These environmental pollutants, specifically perchlorate, thyocianate, and nitrate, interfere with the body’s production of thyroid. They inhibit the function of sodium-iodide symporter which helps bring iodide into the follicular cells, or thyroid epithelial cells, of the thyroid gland during the formation of thyroid hormone. This step is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis and interference at this stage can lead to hypothyroidism. Disruption of the thyroid system in young people can negatively affect various organ systems. This can lead to symptoms including reduced growth rate and poor attention.
The endocrine system is a delicate network responsible for many essential physiological functions in the human body. It involves the glands of the body — such as the thyroid, the adrenals, and the ovaries — and the hormones they produce. These hormones are carried throughout the body via the circulatory system. The endocrine system regulates the functions of the organs. When it gets out of whack it can cause complex, difficult to treat problems.
People of all ages are susceptible to the negative effects of these chemicals, but this study found teens to be 2-3 times more susceptible than the general population. The researchers of this study were not able to examine children younger than 12, therefore they can only confirm the higher vulnerability of teens.
The contaminants studied can be found both naturally in the environment and as a result of pollution. They can show up in our food sources via water and soil contamination. Perchlorate is found naturally in the environment and is used in rockets and explosives. Nitrate is found in fertilizers and certain preserved foods. Thiocyanate exposure usually comes from cigarettes but it is also showing up in environmental sources. These pollutants are being detected in consumables including vegetables, milk and drinking water.
No specific treatment exists for the health effects of these toxins. At this stage, avoiding exposure is key. Leonardo Trasande, MD, MPP, an author of the study, recommends eating a healthy diet containing iodine-rich foods, such as kelp, navy beans, Greek yogurt, and cranberries. He encourages avoiding preserved foods, buying organic, and taking iodide supplements to reduce the effects of environmental contaminants. Adolescents should also have their thyroid checked periodically.