What is Hashimoto’s Disease and can it prevent weight loss?
Hashimoto's disease, also known as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. In Hashimoto's disease, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage to the thyroid tissue, which can lead to an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism).
When the thyroid gland is underactive, it produces less thyroid hormone, which can slow down the body's metabolism and lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, and dry skin, among others.
One of the most common symptoms of Hashimoto's disease is weight gain, but it is not usually severe enough to prevent weight loss. In fact, many people with Hashimoto's disease can lose weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise.
However, in some cases, Hashimoto's disease can make weight loss more difficult. This can happen if the hypothyroidism is not well-controlled with medication, leading to a slower metabolism and reduced calorie burn. Additionally, some people with Hashimoto's disease may experience increased appetite or food cravings, which can make it harder to stick to a healthy diet.
If you suspect that you have Hashimoto's disease or are struggling to lose weight despite a healthy lifestyle, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can perform tests to check your thyroid function and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include medication to replace the missing thyroid hormone, as well as lifestyle changes to support weight loss.
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