Why Am I Gaining Weight Despite Dieting? Your Thyroid Could Be the Reason

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People believe that their weight should decrease when they follow healthy eating and active living practices. The body weight of some individuals remains constant despite their efforts to control what they eat and their daily activities. People who experience this condition may have an underactive thyroid known as hypothyroidism.

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We spoke to Dr Bhanu Praveen Naidu, Consultant - Endocrinology, Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, who explained how hypothyroidism can slow down metabolism, contribute to weight gain, and affect overall health.

The thyroid gland, which has a butterfly shape, is located in the neck and helps control the body's metabolic functions. It produces hormones that determine the body's ability to burn calories. "When the thyroid gland fails to produce adequate amounts of these hormones, metabolism slows down. In a hypothyroid state, the body requires fewer calories to function at rest, making weight gain easier and weight loss more challenging, explained Dr Naidu.

Common Signs That Point Toward a Thyroid Issue

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"People with hypothyroidism often experience gradual weight gain that develops over time. This happens due to two main factors: slower calorie burning and fluid retention, both of which contribute to changes in body weight," said Dr Naidu.

People with hypothyroidism often experience weight gain along with several other symptoms. They may feel ongoing fatigue, sluggishness, and low energy levels. Some individuals also develop increased sensitivity to cold. "Other common symptoms include dry skin, hair loss, constipation, facial swelling, irregular menstrual cycles, and difficulty concentrating. Mood changes such as depression, irritability, and brain fog are also commonly reported," added Dr Naidu.

Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, is one of the primary causes of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can also develop due to previous thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, certain medications, or iodine imbalance.

How Doctors Diagnose and Treat Hypothyroidism

"Doctors rely on basic blood tests to identify thyroid disorders. The standard tests include TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) and T4 and T3 measurements. Doctors use thyroid antibody tests when they suspect an autoimmune disorder in certain patients. Family history is also important, since thyroid disorders often run in families," shared Dr Naidu.

The treatment for confirmed hypothyroidism is generally straightforward. Doctors commonly prescribe levothyroxine, a synthetic form of thyroxine sodium, to replace the missing thyroid hormones and help restore normal metabolic function.

Weight Gain Is Not Always About the Thyroid

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People should know that thyroid disease does not always explain their weight gain. Multiple factors, including sleep problems, sleep apnoea, permanent stress conditions, high cortisol levels, specific antidepressant medications and steroids, insulin resistance, menopause, decreased muscle mass, and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, can lead to obesity.

Message From The Expert

Dr Naidu concluded, "You should consider a medical evaluation if your weight gain continues despite consistent calorie control, especially if it is accompanied by fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation, or other thyroid-related symptoms. The family background of thyroid disease and the signs of neck swelling and ongoing hoarseness should receive proper attention. The root cause needs to be identified because some people need medical assistance for their metabolic issues."

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.