Several studies now point out that sluggish thyroid function (subclinical hypothyroid) is associated with early adverse changes in the electrical function of the heart.  One study shows that these changes disturb the “fitness” of the heart known as heart rate variability.  The newest study shows that sluggish thyroid has a marked change in autonomic electrical regulation of the heart, setting the stage for irregular heart beats and increased risk for sudden death due to poor heart function.

The bottom line is that poor thyroid function, even initial changes away from optimal thyroid health, are directly stressful to your heart via changes that occur in the nerve-heart relationship.  Stress also plays a role in such electrical changes, especially when stress is ongoing for a long period of time and is inducing noticeable wear and tear.  Any person with any form of heart-related symptoms should have adequate nutrition to offset stress and enhance optimal thyroid function – so as to boost cardiovascular fitness.

If you would like to learn more about your heart and its electrical function, including the use of nutrition to maintain optimal health, please consult my Cardiovascular Health Topic section.