Weight gain with hypothyroidism mainly concerns situations when there is overt hypothyroidism with unbalanced hormonal disorders. When hypothyroidism is properly treated and hormone levels are balanced, it ceases to be a cause of obesity. Unfortunately, many people do not pay attention to their diet and explain weight gain with hypothyroidism, regardless of whether the hormone levels are balanced or not.
Untreated or improperly treated hypothyroidism leads to weight gain for several reasons. First, generalized edema occurs. Water retention in the body contributes primarily to weight gain. Another problem is a slower metabolism. The caloric demand of a person with hypothyroidism decreases. Therefore, if a person consumes the same number of calories as before the disease, it may turn out that their body weight begins to increase.
Weakness and lethargy translate into a decrease in physical activity. It, in turn, is also a factor in increasing the risk of weight gain. Hypothyroidism causes menstrual disorders through an indirect effect on hormonal dysregulation. Disturbances in sex hormones are also a significant factor that impairs metabolism and makes it difficult to lose weight.
