Why is the thyroid gland so important to good health?

The thyroid gland governs the body’s metabolism and growth through the production of thyroid hormones. These hormones determine our body’s metabolic rate, the rate at which our body’s cells produce and utilize energy. If your thyroid gland were to be removed, and you were not given any supplemental thyroid, then you might live one year. You would slowly unwind like a doll on Christmas morning until your body would cease functioning. The thyroid hormones are essential for life.