Common perception implies that hypothyroidism causes excess body weight. But which comes first, excess weight or hypothyroidism? Is your weight loss challenge because of hypothyroidism? Some of you have hypothyroidism , obesity and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) , all three together. Is that a coincidence? But your hypothyroidism has been treated and you still can’t lose weight! What is going on?
How Much of Your Weight is Influenced by Hypothyroidism?
According to the American Thyroid Association (1) 1
Massive weight gain is rarely associated with hypothyroidism. In general, 5-10 pounds (2.2-4.5 kgs) 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.
[Read more…]Once hypothyroidism has been treated and thyroid hormone levels have returned to the normal range of thyroid hormone, the ability to gain or lose weight is the same as in individuals who do not have thyroid problems.
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