The thyroid gland is responsible for producing triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) hormones that help regulate the body’s metabolism. In case of any thyroid-related disorders, there is a disruption in the body’s metabolic rate, affecting weight management and body mass index (BMI).
This guide analyses how thyroid disorders lead to weight gain, the common symptoms of thyroid weight gain, its diagnosis procedures, treatment options, and more.
Any thyroid-related disorder that affects the T3 and T4 balance in the body will impact the metabolic rate and, as a result, the body weight. The following is a detailed overview:
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones, causing the body’s metabolism to slow down. This reduces the rate at which the body burns calories, resulting in weight gain.
Additionally, the body’s lipid metabolism decreases, leading to a rise in triglyceride and cholesterol levels. In this condition, water retention also increases, and glucose metabolism becomes slower, resulting in weight gain, low energy levels, and fatigue.
If the thyroid gland produces excess thyroid hormones, it leads to hyperthyroidism, which increases the body’s metabolic rate. As a result, even with normal or increased food intake, the individual experiences unintentional weight loss.
Moreover, lipid breakdown increases, leading to lower cholesterol levels, which, if not managed, can lead to muscle loss. The heart rate also elevates, leading to increased body temperature and feelings of anxiety and restlessness. Apart from this, digestion accelerates, resulting in lower nutrient absorption and an overall drop in energy levels.
Hashimoto's Thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system damages the thyroid gland, gradually reducing its ability to generate thyroid hormones. This leads to hypothyroidism and a low metabolic rate, contributing to weight gain.
Additionally, fat metabolism becomes impaired, resulting in enhanced cholesterol levels and increased body weight. Individuals may experience low energy levels, sluggishness, extreme fatigue, and sensitivity to cold.
Thyroid Hormone Resistance is a rare disorder in which the body’s cells become less reactive to the thyroid hormones, even if they are present at optimum levels. This results in unusual metabolic effects, resulting in symptoms which are seen in cases of both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Some cells may respond as if they are receiving too much T3 and T4, while others may act as if they are receiving too little. This may result in unpredictable weight gain or loss, along with changes in fat distribution.
Additionally, individuals may experience fluctuating energy levels (hyperactivity and fatigue) and temperature regulation issues (sensitivity to cold and heat intolerance).
Unexplained weight gain is one of the most common symptoms of thyroid-related issues. However, individuals often experience several other symptoms which can help detect the underlying disorder. Here they are:
The diagnosis process of thyroid disorders includes specific tests that help healthcare providers monitor thyroid levels and overall thyroid functioning. Some of the key tests in this regard are as follows:
Doctors have a wide range of treatment methods for dealing with thyroid disorders. They are as follows:
Thyroid-related weight gain usually tends to have a significant mental impact on the individual, ranging from frustration to low self-esteem and embarrassment. Also, physical symptoms like fatigue and mood swings can further intensify these emotions, making daily life activities and social interactions a big challenge.
In this regard, individuals should practise self-care, develop resilience, and take part in activities like meditation and daily exercise. Also, reaching out to family members, friends, and healthcare professionals can also help get encouragement and much-needed mental support.
Thyroid disorders affect the metabolic rate, which impacts weight management. Symptoms include rapid weight gain or loss, swelling, muscle weakness, etc. In addition to medication, doctors may advise adopting a healthy lifestyle, quitting smoking, and having a healthy diet.
Also, it is recommended to practice self-compassion and reach out to loved ones and healthcare providers. This is an excellent way to deal with the psychological impact of thyroid weight gain.
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