Hypothyroidism & Weight Gain
Gaining weight and not being able to lose it is one of the first signs of hypothyroidism. Most men and women know how to keep their weight in a comfortable range… if the jeans are getting too snug, it just means salads for lunch for a week. The idea of a thyroid problem begins to emerge when the weight doesn’t only not come off, the weight gain increases.
_________________________________________________________
Weight Gain Commonly Occurs With Thyroid Disorders
_________________________________________________________
Weight gain from hypothyroidism is caused by a slowed metabolism and several more factors. Often, the patient is told that the weight will come off once thyroid replacement medication is started. Unfortunately, this doesn’t usually occur and the weight gains continue despite “normal” TSH levels. It may seem to the patient that it doesn’t matter how little they eat or how much they exercise, the weight gain won’t go away.
One common reason for weight gain due to hypothyroidism is its link with food allergies. Food allergies can cause an increase of fat deposits in the abdominal area which do not respond to increased exercise or decreased caloric intake.
Someone with hypothyroidism may also have hypoglycemia which can produce cravings for sweets and salty snacks and hunger. Hypoglycemia is associated with all six patterns of hypothyroidism.
Another reason that hypothyroidism can cause weight gain is its effect on the adrenal glands. A sluggish thyroid can cause sluggish adrenal glands. Low functioning adrenal glands can have wide ranging effects on the body. These include:
- Distribution of stored fat (especially around the mid-body and sides of the face)
- Blood sugar regulation (hypoglycemia)
- Cardiovascular function
- Conversion of fats and proteins into energy
- Utilization of carbohydrates and fats
- Gastrointestinal function

Ready To Get Started? Tampa: Call (813) 253-2333;
Dr. Frank Lanzisera, DC, Chiropractic Physician, will consult with you about the details of your case and perform a thorough physical examination with neurological testing and metabolic assessment. Dr. Lanzisera will review your examination findings with you, inform you if he will accept your case and, if he feels he can help you, give you his best treatment recommendations.
In some cases, you may also consult with nurse practitoner, Lauren DeNeve, APRN.
Dr. Lanzisera applies natural methods to help those with chronic thyroid conditions, working in conjunction with your primary care medical doctor and endocrinologist specialist. When applicable he employs present day natural methods as an adjunct to help improve your condition.
Call or email us to schedule your appointment with Dr. Lanzisera today.
Contact Us!
[forminator_form id=”5354″]