Hypothyroidism and Weight – The Link Between Your Thyroid and Weight Gain
There are many symptoms of hypothyroidism, some more familiar than others. The hallmark hypothyroidism symptoms are fatigue, an insensitivity to cold temperatures, sluggishness, depression and constipation. Another symptom of a low thyroid function is weight gain. But how does the thyroid affect your weight, what is the connection between hypothyroidism and weight gain, and is this really a concern?
Well, to women who are struggling with hypothyroidism, it is a concern. Many patients report weight gain with hypothyroidism and the inability to lose that weight. It makes sense, since the thyroid is responsible for the majority of the metabolic processes of the body, include converting food to energy. However, according to the American Thyroid Association, the cause of weight gain in thyroid patients is due to many factors, and can be attributed to gaining water and salt weight and not strictly fat. In fact, the ATA goes on to state massive weight gain is not a result of low thyroid and people can expect a weight gain of no more than 5-10 pounds.
They further assert that with treatment for hypothyroidism, the body should return to pre-condition levels. Further complicating the weight gain scenario is the fact hypothyroidism typically occurs over a long period of time, and the ATA states with treatment, patients can expect to lose no more than 10% of their total body mass when treatments start.
Factors that Effect Hypothyroidism and Weight
This is not the news most people want to hear when it comes to hypothyroidism and weight loss. However, it is not as simple as that. Since the thyroid controls most of the metabolic processes of the body, it has been linked to three other factors that have a significant impact on the weight loss process.
1. Insulin resistance: it is theorized the condition of hypothyroidism slows down the body’s ability to process carbohydrates and sugars which impacts the body’s production of insulin and leads to insulin resistance.
2. Metabolic resistance: it is also believed a low thyroid function also affects the body’s “set point” where the body maintains the weight at a certain level. If you gain weight over a long period of time, the body resets the weight set point and even if you reduce your calorie intake, it is more difficult to lose that weight. This explains how some people can eat a lot and remain thin, while heavier people can eat the same amount and never lose a pound.
3. Brain chemistry: hunger is dependent on the signals from the brain. A low thyroid function can alter the brain chemistry and slow down metabolism.
Losing weight is a complicated process and there is no one simple answer regarding hypothyroidism and weight gain. There are many factors to consider, and they all seem to be connected. While taking a thyroid hormone pill can help with small weight loss, it is by no means the total answer and will most likely only affect a small amount of weight. Experts say the best way to combat weight gain due to this debilitating condition is to increase your exercise and eat healthy to break the connection between hypothyroidism and weight.
