Hypothyroidism And Weight Gain

Hypothyroidism is a disorder that is associated with the improper functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is involved in the production of the thyroid hormone. The thyroid is the largest endocrine glands. It is located near the throat region of the body.

Sometimes there is over secretion of thyroid hormone while sometimes there is under secretion of thyroid hormone. The over secretion is called as the Hyperthyroidism while the under secretion is called as the Hypothyroidism.

Weight gain and thyroid are very closely related. Though not 100 % of the weight gain cases are related to thyroid but maximum cases are such that the weight gain is because of the improper functioning of the thyroid hormone. There are a number of reasons which can affect the health of the thyroid gland. The mechanisms of the neurotransmitters, the reproductive hormones and other adrenal glands can indirectly affect the functioning of the thyroid glands.

When the thyroid gland is under active that is, when there is less secretion of thyroid hormones then the metabolic rate is also reduced. When a large number of calories are consumed and the metabolic rate is reduced then the extra energy is saved in the body. This storage increases the weight of the body. Also when one suffering from hypothyroidism goes on diet, than in that case the metabolic rate is still reduced further.

Thus there is no difference in the weight of the person who is on diet.

One more important fact about the thyroid gland is that there are a number of changes that take place inside the thyroid gland. But these changes are not revealed out unless there is a major hormonal imbalance. Thus especially in case of females at the time of menopause there is a large hormonal imbalance and so the changes in the thyroid hormone are revealed at that time. Thus menopause and weight gain occur simultaneously.

When anyone suffering from hypothyroidism also suffers from weight gain then one has to immediately consult to the doctor. He has to undergo the thyroid test. In this case the doctor tests the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone in the blood. If it is below normal then proper medication should be taken. It is generally observed that women suffer a lot from weight gain if they are also suffering from Hypothyroidism. This is because females undergo a lot of hormonal changes every month.

Thus hypothyroidism and weight gain are very closely associated.