Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition where your thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, slowing down your body’s metabolism. Common symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, feeling cold, and dry skin. It is easily diagnosed with a blood test and can be managed with daily thyroid hormone replacement medication.

Hypothyroidism is a state of deficient thyroid hormone production, most commonly due to Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (autoimmune destruction). Reduced T3/T4 levels decrease basal metabolic rate by 15–30%, impair lipolysis, and promote fluid retention — collectively contributing to modest weight gain of 2–5 kg. Diagnosis is confirmed by elevated serum TSH with low free T4. Levothyroxine replacement normalises metabolic rate, though weight loss from correction alone is typically limited to the accumulated fluid and a small amount of fat mass.

Undiagnosed hypothyroidism can undermine weight-loss efforts despite diet and exercise. As part of a thorough medical evaluation, Dr. Joseph Wang includes thyroid assessment to ensure underlying conditions are not sabotaging your weight management progress.