Why Weight Gain Happens in Hypothyroidism Explained Simply

You are eating healthy. You are trying to exercise. Yet, the number on the scale keeps creeping up.

If you are living with an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), this is a frustrating reality. In the UK alone, it is estimated that over 2% of the population suffers from this condition, with numbers even higher across Europe, particularly among women.

But why exactly does a small gland in your neck make it so hard to lose weight? Is it just fat, or is it something else?

At Sunnah Diagnostic, we believe knowledge is the first step to healing. Here is the simple explanation of the "Thyroid Weight Trap" and how to support your body naturally.

1. The "Broken Engine" Effect (Metabolism)

Think of your body like a car and your thyroid gland as the gas pedal.

• Normal Thyroid: It releases hormones (T3 and T4) that tell your body’s cells how fast to burn energy. This is your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR).

• Hypothyroidism: The gland doesn't produce enough hormones. The "gas pedal" is barely pressed. Your engine (metabolism) slows down, and instead of burning calories for fuel, your body stores them.

The Result: You could eat the exact same amount of food as your friend, but because your BMR is low, you gain weight while they stay slim.

2. It’s Not Just Fat—It’s Water (The Puffy Look)

Here is a secret most GPs don't explain fully: A significant portion of weight gain in hypothyroidism is not fat—it is fluid retention.

When your thyroid hormones drop, your kidneys change how they process water and salt. Your body starts holding onto sodium, which attracts water. This leads to a condition called myxedema—a specific type of swelling that makes your face look puffy and your limbs feel heavy.

Did you know? For many patients, 5–10 lbs (2–5 kg) of their excess weight is purely salt and water retention, not fat tissue.

3. The Fatigue Trap

Hypothyroidism steals your energy. With low T3/T4 levels, your cells don't get the "get going" signal. You feel sluggish, tired, and unmotivated.

• This makes it physically harder to exercise or stay active.

• Moving less means burning fewer calories, which creates a vicious cycle of weight gain.

The Holistic Solution: Medical + Sunnah

In the West, the standard treatment is Levothyroxine to replace the missing hormone. While this is essential, many women find that the weight doesn't simply "fall off" once they start medication.

This is where Prophetic Medicine can offer the extra support your metabolism needs.

A. Qist al-Hindi (Indian Costus): The Thyroid Support

Known in traditional medicine for centuries, Indian Costus is widely used to support thyroid function.

• How it helps: Research suggests Qist al-Hindi may help balance TSH, T3, and T4 levels.

• The Sunnah: The Prophet (peace be upon him) specifically recommended Indian Costus for throat and glandular ailments.

B. Black Seed Oil: The Metabolism Booster

To combat the sluggishness of a slow metabolism, Black Seed Oil is a powerhouse. It supports the immune system and helps reduce the "water weight" inflammation in the body.

Summary: What Can You Do?

1. Check your levels: Ensure your GP checks your TSH, T3, and T4.

2. Move gently: Combat the fatigue with light walking to keep the fluid moving.

3. Support naturally: Incorporate Qist al-Hindi into your routine to target the root of the glandular imbalance.

Don't let a slow engine define your health. Give your body the support it needs.

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