An unexplained change in weight is one of the most common signs of a thyroid disorder. Weight gain may signal low levels of thyroid hormones, a condition called hypothyroidism. In contrast, if the thyroid produces more hormones than the body needs, you may lose weight unexpectedly. This is known as hyperthyroidism.
Going up a couple of pant sizes is one of the top symptoms of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism, also called an underactive thyroid, is a condition in which your metabolism-running thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormones to meet your body's needs.
In general, 5-10 pounds of body weight may be attributable to the thyroid, depending on the severity of the hypothyroidism. Finally, if weight gain is the only symptom of hypothyroidism that is present, it is less likely that the weight gain is solely due to the thyroid.
One study of 101 people with hypothyroidism found that 52% lost weight after starting treatment with thyroid hormone replacement, with an average loss of 8.4 pounds.
When you start taking thyroid medication like levothyroxine, don't expect instant weight loss. The first barrier is getting the right dose of thyroid medication. Once you have reached your ideal dose, you may notice some weight loss after around three to six months of continuous use.
Even mild cases of hypothyroidism may increase the risk of weight gain and obesity. People with the condition often report having a puffy face as well as excess weight around the stomach or other areas of the body.
An underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) is where your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones. Common signs of an underactive thyroid are tiredness, weight gain and feeling depressed.
Hypothyroidism is caused by an underactive thyroid. It often causes weight gain, among other symptoms. Most people with untreated hypothyroidism gain between 5 to 10 pounds. Treating hypothyroidism may not be enough to lose the excess weight.
Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
Plant-based foods are an important part of any diet, but eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can be especially helpful for someone with hypothyroidism. Vegetables are low in calories, so eating more of them can help you feel full without contributing to weight gain.
People lose about five to ten pounds on thyroid medication or less than 10% of their body weight. The weight loss is usually caused by the body getting rid of an excess accumulation of water and salt (i.e., water weight).
Fatty foods – Fats are known to upset your body's ability to absorb thyroid replacement hormones. Fats can also prevent the thyroid's natural ability to produce hormones. Physicians recommend that you cut out all fried foods and limit your intake of fats from butter, mayonnaise and fatty meats.
Hypothyroidism: Why Weight Loss is Tough
"When your thyroid is not functioning well, your metabolism goes down and you start to gain weight," says Anne Wolf, RD, MS, a registered dietitian and researcher at the University of Virginia School of Medicine in Charlottesville.
The most commonly prescribed thyroid hormone is called levothyroxine (Synthroid®), but there are others available. Thyroid hormones increase the body's metabolism which may cause weight loss.
Avoid taking your thyroid hormone at the same time as:
Iron supplements or multivitamins containing iron. Calcium supplements. Antacids that contain aluminum, magnesium or calcium. Some ulcer medications, such as sucralfate (Carafate)
Symptoms of Rash Due to Thyroid Disease
This itchy rash can occur on the neck, chest, back, face, and buttocks.
You may feel nervous, moody, weak, or tired. Your hands may shake, your heart may beat fast, or you may have problems breathing. You may be sweaty or have warm, red, itchy skin. You may have more bowel movements than usual.
Weight gain and fluctuations in weight can happen for a variety of reasons. Many people progressively gain weight as they age or make changes to their lifestyle. However, fast weight gain can be a sign of an underlying health condition, such as a problem with the thyroid, kidneys, or heart.
A hormonal belly looks like an accumulation of fat around the belly. It looks like excess fat on the stomach that cannot be removed. Hormonal imbalances can lead to excess fat accumulation in the belly area.