Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid gland that slows metabolism and can contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
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.
Medical
Clinical Definition
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.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
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.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.