Adrenaline

Adrenaline is a hormone released from the adrenal glands to provide additional glucose during stress, mobilizing free fatty acids for fuel when glycogen has been exhausted 1. It decreases the conversion to T4 to T3, and increases the formation of the antagonistic reverse T3, leading to a chronic problem involving blocked ATP production, activation of the protein kinase C system, inhibition of thyroid function, and availability of fats for prostaglandin synthesis 1. Adrenaline also interferes directly with the respiratory functions of the mitochondria, particularly when polyunsaturated fatty acids are released 2.

In individuals with low thyroid function, adrenaline levels are often 20, 30, or 40 times higher than normal, as the body attempts to compensate for the lack of energy 2. This can lead to a diabetes-like condition, as the body depletes its glucose stores and begins to rely on fatty acids for fuel, which can poison the ability to burn glucose 2. Adrenaline also causes the blood to be redirected from the extremities to the core, resulting in cold hands and feet 4.

Adrenaline has a protective function, keeping the blood flowing to the brain, lungs, and heart, but it can also have negative effects on the body, such as reducing the circulation to the intestine and causing the intestinal wall to become a poor barrier, allowing toxins to leak through 7. Additionally, prolonged stress can lead to adrenal fatigue, characterized by low cholesterol levels and impaired thyroid function 5.