Thyroid problems can make you gain weight or lose weight, which depends on the type of change and the levels of thyroid hormones, which may be increased in the case of hyperthyroidism or decreased in the case of hypothyroidism.
The thyroid is a gland responsible for producing the hormones T3 and T4, which regulate the functioning of various body mechanisms, from the heartbeat to bowel movements and even energy expenditure, body temperature and the menstrual cycle. in the woman.
Therefore, any change in the thyroid can easily affect the functioning of the entire body, causing various unpleasant symptoms such as weight gain or loss, constipation, hair loss, dry skin, tiredness and difficulty concentrating, for example. Check out the most common symptoms of thyroid problems.
Main thyroid problems
The main thyroid problems that can lead to weight gain or loss are:
1. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a thyroid dysfunction that produces less T3 and T4 hormones, resulting in symptoms such as weight gain, excessive tiredness or dry, rough skin, for example. Know how to identify the symptoms of hypothyroidism.
However, although it is rare, some people who suffer from hypothyroidism and are treated with thyroid hormone replacement medications may also experience weight loss, especially if the dose is higher than recommended.
The cause of hypothyroidism can be autoimmune, or occur due to iodine deficiency or changes in the pituitary gland in the brain that produces the hormone TSH, which stimulates the thyroid to produce T3 and T4. See other common thyroid problems.
2. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is characterized by increased production of thyroid hormones, which is associated with an increase in metabolism, and therefore, one of the symptoms is weight loss.
However, this increase in metabolism can cause an increase in appetite, which in some people can lead to increased food intake and consequent weight gain.
Another cause of weight gain in people with hyperthyroidism is thyroiditis, which is an inflammation of the thyroid that can be caused by Graves' disease, an autoimmune disease, which is one of the causes behind hyperthyroidism. Know how to identify the symptoms of Graves' disease and see how the treatment is carried out.
Why does it happen?
Weight gain or loss caused by thyroid problems occurs because the thyroid has the role of regulating the functioning of various organs in the body and even influencing body temperature. This gland is capable of affecting metabolism, which is the amount of energy that the body uses during the day to keep itself functioning.
Thus, in hyperthyroidism there is an increase in metabolism as there are increased levels of thyroid hormones, leading to weight loss.
People with hypothyroidism, on the other hand, have a reduced metabolism due to lower levels of thyroid hormones and, therefore, tend to gain weight more easily.
How to identify thyroid problems
The diagnosis of thyroid problems is made by the endocrinologist, starting by evaluating symptoms and health history.
To identify which type of thyroid change a person has, the doctor must order blood tests that measure the concentrations of the hormones produced by the thyroid, T3 and T4, as well as the hormone TSH, which is produced in the brain and is responsible for stimulating thyroid function.
In the case of hypothyroidism, T3 and T4 values are normally below normal, while the TSH value is increased.
In hyperthyroidism, T3 and/or T4 values are above normal, while the TSH value is decreased.
If you have symptoms of a thyroid problem, make an appointment with an endocrinologist in the nearest region:
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What to do to avoid weight gain
The best way to combat weight gain due to changes in the thyroid is to identify the problem and start appropriate treatment, as this will make it possible to balance the functioning of the thyroid and the entire body's metabolism.
However, reducing the amount of calories consumed in food, as well as increasing energy expenditure through daily physical exercise are also essential to help maintain body weight.
In any case, these instructions should always be given by the endocrinologist who is treating the thyroid problem.
Check out some tips from our nutritionist on how to eat for thyroid problems:
