What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland is underactive and doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid is a small gland located in your neck that plays a crucial role in regulating your body's metabolism.
How does it affect your body?
When thyroid hormone levels are low Show Full Answer
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland is underactive and doesn't produce enough thyroid hormone. The thyroid is a small gland located in your neck that plays a crucial role in regulating your body's metabolism.
How does it affect your body?
When thyroid hormone levels are low, your metabolism slows down significantly. This means your body burns fewer calories than usual, even when you're resting. As a result, you may experience:
* Weight gain (typically 5-10 pounds)
* Feeling cold frequently
* Constipation
* Fatigue and low energy
* Muscle weakness
* Depression
* Heavy menstrual periods
* A puffy face
* Bloating and water retention
What causes hypothyroidism?
The most common cause is an autoimmune disease where your immune system attacks and damages the thyroid gland. Other causes include:
* Medication side effects
* Thyroid surgery
* Iodine deficiency
* Radiation treatment
* Infections
* Inflammation
The connection to weight
The slower metabolism from hypothyroidism makes it harder to maintain or lose weight. Your body temperature also drops, which means you burn fewer calories even at rest. Part of the weight gain comes from extra salt and water retention in your body.
The good news is that hypothyroidism can usually be managed with hormone replacement medication, which can help get your metabolism back on track.
March 14
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