Thyroid dysfunction and weight gain: what is the link?
For Phytocea by Léa Bathily, Dietitian
The French SU.VI.MAX study estimated that 2% of the French population suffers from thyroid dysfunction, with a higher incidence in women (3.6%). Thyroid dysfunction has repercussions on the entire body. Among the most common conditions, hypothyroidism is often the cause of weight gain. What are the causes of hypothyroidism? What is the link with weight gain? This article will help you better understand these mechanisms.
What is the thyroid?
The thyroid is an endocrine gland, meaning it secretes hormones directly into the bloodstream. Normally, the thyroid is invisible to the naked eye and is located at the base of the neck. The main thyroid hormones produced by this organ are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Their synthesis is influenced by another hormone called TSH, which is itself secreted by the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain.
Together, these hormones act in many organs and are therefore responsible for multiple functions and have an impact on:
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Heart rate or the volume of blood ejected by the heart;
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Stimulation of the respiratory centers;
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The development of certain muscle fibers;
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Maintaining body temperature;
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The variation in basal metabolism and therefore in the body's energy expenditure;
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The metabolism of lipids, carbohydrates and proteins.
The list is long and demonstrates the importance of proper thyroid function. Otherwise, thyroid diseases such as hypothyroidism can develop.
What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is defined as an insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. Generally, the symptoms are associated with a reduced metabolism . To put it simply, the body is slowed down.
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
There are two types of hypothyroidism:
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Confirmed hypothyroidism is characterized by a high blood concentration of TSH and a decreased blood concentration of the T4 hormone. In this case, one can observe “visible” symptoms such as dry skin and hair, brittle nails, a change in voice, constipation, sensitivity to cold, muscle cramps, a feeling of bloating and weight gain.
One of the symptoms of hypothyroidism is also a decrease in energy and intense fatigue. It should be noted that digestive problems can occur due to poor fat digestion.
Insufficient iodine intake generally leads to the development of a goiter. This is a swelling of the thyroid gland that can be easily seen with the naked eye.
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Subclinical hypothyroidism, on the other hand, is also characterized by a high blood concentration of TSH but an unchanged amount of T4 hormone. Here, no "visible" symptoms are observed, hence the name "asymptomatic hypothyroidism." The French National Authority for Health (HAS) estimates that in France, 1.9% of men and 3.3% of women have subclinical hypothyroidism, according to data from the SU.VI.MAX study.
Several factors explain the development of this disease. The primary cause worldwide is iodine deficiency . However, it can also be caused by taking certain medications or by autoimmune diseases.
Why can someone with hypothyroidism gain weight?
Weight gain when suffering from hypothyroidism is not so simple and depends on several factors.
As mentioned previously, hypothyroidism impacts metabolism. The fact that the body is "slowed down" leads to a reduced basal metabolic rate. Basal metabolic rate corresponds to the energy requirements established for the body's survival at rest and without external constraints. When this rate is decreased, it means that our body consumes less energy to function. Conversely, if food intake remains unchanged, the body is faced with a hypercaloric diet and therefore an imbalance in energy balance.
Another cause is water retention. In fact, insufficient thyroid hormone secretion can lead to myxedema. This is a skin infiltration characterized by an accumulation of fluid in the skin. This symptom can be accompanied by tongue swelling and sexual dysfunction ( loss of libido ).
How to prevent hypothyroidism
One of the main causes of this condition is iodine deficiency , so the best way to prevent hypothyroidism is to ensure sufficient intake of this micronutrient. However, it's important to note that excessive iodine consumption is also harmful to the thyroid. The key is to find a balance and adhere to the recommended daily intake of 150 μg.
In general, it is essential to have a varied and balanced diet, paying attention to both the quantity and quality of nutrients. The article " Obesity and Nutritional Advice" on nutritional balance can help you develop good eating habits and promote weight loss.
What are good foods for the thyroid?
Foods that are good for the thyroid are those rich in iodine . These are found in table salt (other than artisanal salts such as Guérande salt), seafood, seaweed, fish, dairy products, milk, and also in small quantities in eggs.
Proper thyroid function also depends on other minerals such as:
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Zinc , found in seafood, red meat and cheese;
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Selenium , which is found in seafood, oily fish, Brazil nuts and eggs;
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Tyrosine , found in cheeses, eggs, legumes and certain fish such as cod;
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B vitamins , found in offal, legumes, eggs and cheese.
What foods should be avoided if you have hypothyroidism?
To prevent the development of a goiter, certain foods known as "goitrogenic" should be limited. This is particularly true of soy, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.
In addition to nutritional advice, it is also recommended to have regular physical activity to increase energy expenditure and therefore be able to lose weight.
Phytocea can also help preserve your thyroid…
Our diet is often insufficient to provide the nutrients necessary for maintaining proper thyroid function. Indeed, the INCA 1 report demonstrates that women never reach the recommended iodine intake, while only men aged between 20 and 34 consume the recommended dose of 150μg/day.
To address this widespread iodine deficiency, we have formulated Thyro , a food supplement specifically formulated for the thyroid, bringing together all the most important micronutrients such as iodine, selenium, tyrosine, zinc and B vitamins .
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Sources:
French National Authority for Health: Appropriateness of care
French National Authority for Health: Investigation of thyroid disorders in adults
