Your endocrine system is composed of a group of glands that produce hormones needed for proper growth, development and metabolic function. Your thyroid gland is part of this system. It is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of your neck. It uses the amino acid tyrosine, along with the mineral iodine to produce two primary hormones known as T3 and T4. A tyrosine deficiency can cause underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism.
Thyroid Function
T3 and T4 hormones control your energy expenditure. This is known as your metabolism. It works like a furnace and also controls your temperature. Nearly all your cells use thyroid hormone. Your pituitary gland -- a pea-sized gland at your brain's base -- controls how much hormone your thyroid produces. Too much or too little thyroid hormone can have adverse effects on your health.
Hypothyroidism
When your thyroid gland produces too little thyroid hormone, it is called hypothyroidism. Because your cells depend on thyroid hormone, this can have adverse effects. Hypothyroid symptoms include constipation, fatigue, heavier periods than normal, weight gain and depression. A doctor generally orders a thyroid stimulation hormone test to assess your thyroid health. Normal TSH ranges are 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L. Your doctor may also order a T3 and T4 test for further insight.
Tyrosine
Tyrosine is an amino acid, which are the building blocks of protein. Your body has the capacity to make tyrosine from the amino acid phenylalanine, so it is not a dietary necessity. However, chicken, turkey, fish, bananas and avocados are tyrosine-rich. You must get phenylalanine from your diet to make enough tyrosine. It is found in poultry, fish, yogurt, eggs and cheese. A phenylalanine deficiency can cause tyrosine deficiency, which can lead to hypothyroidism.
Treatment
Though tyrosine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism, it is not the most common cause. Hashitmoto's thyroiditis, which is an abnormal immune response that causes your immune system to attack your thyroid is the most common hypothyroid cause, according to PubMed Health. Hypothyroid treatment generally consists of replacing the hormone that your thyroid is unable to make. Tyrosine supplements are available in capsule form, but keep in mind that clinical data to support its use for hypothyroidism are lacking. Consult your doctor before taking tyrosine supplements.
