Diseases of the Hypothalamus

Did you know there are certain diseases of the hypothalamus that affect its function?

Your hypothalamus is absolutely vital for the function of your entire body. It controls your metabolism, your energy production, and your weight. As well as your temperature regulation, all of your hormones, your immune system, your moods, and your cognition. There is not much that your hypothalamus doesn’t control. However, it is important to know there are certain diseases that will affect the hypothalamus. 

Genetic disorders are the first category. 

The most common genetic disorder that affects the hypothalamus is Prader Willi Syndrome. A congenital disorder that results in uncontrollable eating and morbid childhood obesity. Another genetic disorder that can affect hypothalamus function is Kallmann Syndrome. It is a condition that is characterized by late or absent puberty. As well as an impaired sense of smell. Both of these genetic conditions affect the hypothalamus’ production of hormones.

Another genetic disorder, hereditary hemochromatosis, can cause a buildup of iron in the body and will affect the hypothalamus. The hypothalamus is very sensitive to heavy metal toxicity. And even though iron is a nutritional element, too much of it can damage the hypothalamus. 

Chronic malnutrition will definitely affect the hypothalamus.

Eating disorders, bulimia, and anorexia have a big effect on the hypothalamus. They cause severe hypothalamic dysfunction which can lead to an imbalance in hormones. Infertility, thyroid issues, adrenal issues, sleep disorders, and temperature regulation issues. 

Malnutrition can start in the perinatal period. If a fetus is not exposed to the proper nutrition during pregnancy, it will affect the development of the hypothalamus. Maternal malnutrition during the perinatal period can lead to childhood obesity. Chronic malnutrition in children and adults can also cause hypothalamic dysfunction. 

The hypothalamus is very sensitive to infections.

This is because the hypothalamus is not protected by the blood-brain barrier. Certain infectious agents can cause disease in the hypothalamus and affect its function in the short term. As well as long-term disability. Neurotoxins that infectious agents produce affect the hypothalamus. Tuberculosis commonly affects the hypothalamus. Lyme disease can also affect the function of the hypothalamus.

Cytomegalovirus is another virus that can affect the function of the hypothalamus for years after it becomes infected. And Epstein Barr Virus, which can damage cellular mitochondria, will affect the function of the hypothalamus. I see many patients with Epstein Barr Virus who have hypothalamic dysfunction contributing to their hormonal issues. This includes very high viral loads years after the initial infection.  

Most recently, it has been shown that the COVID-19 virus can cause severe hypothalamic dysfunction. That’s because the hypothalamus is rich in ACE2 receptors. The same receptors in the lungs and the cardiovascular system that the Coronavirus can attach to and cause disease. 

Visual disturbances, headaches, fever, and abnormalities in white blood cells are immediate signs of hypothalamus infection. Most of the time, you may not notice the early signs and not realize your hypothalamus has been affected until months to years later. 

Damage of the hypothalamus can cause issues with hormonal balance. This includes irregular periods and infertility, erectile dysfunction, mood disorders like depression and anxiety, brain fog and cognitive dysfunction. Also, increased susceptibility to infections, temperature regulation issues, unusual sweating, excessive thirst, issues with glucose metabolism, and insulin regulation. This leads to insulin resistance and obesity. 

You can’t always avoid diseases that may affect your hypothalamus. If you have any signs of hypothalamic dysfunction after an acute infection, you need to get an evaluation as soon as possible. 

You will need to have your titers checked for the infectious agent if you have signs of hypothalamic dysfunction, and it’s been a long time since you’ve had any type of infection, . As well as a complete endocrine evaluation in order to find out the extent of the damage to the hypothalamus. 

I have found that even with patients who have infectious agents that have caused hypothalamic damage, supporting their hypothalamus with Genesis Gold® and extra Sacred Seven® amino acids can help their hypothalamus to heal. They can get their hormones back into balance, and correct their weight issues, insulin sensitivity issues, and metabolic issues. As well as improve their moods and their brain fog. 

If you have any questions about the hypothalamus or hypothalamus damage, why don’t you join us in our Hormone Support Group, which you get access through our free Hormone Reboot Training. I hope to see you there!

Research Reference:

Infections of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary Region, Hypothalamic-pituitary insufficiency following infectious diseases of the central nervous system, Is there a role for the adrenal glands in long COVID?

*Statements not reviewed by the FDA.