The 2017 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to researchers for their discoveries of molecular mechanisms that control circadian rhythm, our biological “clock.” This sleep-wake cycle not only helps us move between sleepiness and alertness at regular intervals, it also plays an important role in regulating the immune system. When you have an autoimmune disease such as Hashimoto’s hypothyroidism, a healthy circadian rhythm is important to dampen thyroid flares and to promote thyroid health.
Functions the circadian rhythm influences are:
- Behavior
- Sleep
- Mood
- Immunity
- Brain function
- Hormone levels
- Metabolism