EnergeticLeo
Member
Just wanted to share this recent development in my understanding of the energy system.
I had heard Peat say many times that glycogen storage wasn't great in hypothyroid individuals but I never understand the underlying mechanism - now I think I do.
First I came across this paper: The effect of the thyroid status on the activation of glycogen synthase in liver cells - PubMed
Now it's clear to me why in a hypo-metabolic state, blood sugar control and hence energy stability can be poor.
I had heard Peat say many times that glycogen storage wasn't great in hypothyroid individuals but I never understand the underlying mechanism - now I think I do.
First I came across this paper: The effect of the thyroid status on the activation of glycogen synthase in liver cells - PubMed
Then it struck me that glycogen formation is, like everything else in the body, a metabolic process, the rate of which is heavily influenced by how much thyroid hormone and fuel is in the system! It seems obvious and basic now but it really helped me understand my current situation - hopefully others will find it useful too.Isolated hepatocytes from hyperthyroid and euthyroid rats showed the same rate and extent of activation of glycogen synthase after addition of glucose (10 mM or 60 mM). In liver cells from hypothyroid rats this activation occurred at a 7-fold lower rate.
Now it's clear to me why in a hypo-metabolic state, blood sugar control and hence energy stability can be poor.
Last edited: