Does removing the thyroid cause weight gain ?
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The thyroid is an important gland in the human body. It looks like a butterfly and is located in your neck. The main function of this organ is to produce the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. In almost every bodily function, these thyroid hormones are involved. Here are some of the major thyroid hormone functions:
- Metabolism regulation
- Hormone regulation
- Growth and development
- Heart rate
- Cardiac functions and blood pressure
- Lipid and carbohydrate metabolism
- Function of the nervous system
- Improves bone health
- Menstrual cycle regulation
- Metabolism of Cholesterol
- Body temperature regulation
- Health of skin, hair, and nails
The two main problems of the thyroid gland are hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), which affect your metabolism, weight, and overall health.
Thyroid problems can arise as a birth defect or may develop later in life. In cases of thyroid dysfunction like thyroid cancer, goitres, or severe hyperthyroidism, doctors may recommend thyroidectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the thyroid gland. The beauty of the thyroid gland is that it works normally even if half the thyroid gland is left intact.
However, the question here is, is weight gain unavoidable after thyroidectomy?
Thyroidectomy
A thyroidectomy is a surgical procedure where the surgeon removes a part of the thyroid gland or the whole gland, depending on the problem. Usually, this procedure is used to treat thyroid cancers or tumors associated with hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a medical condition in which the thyroid gland becomes overactive and produces excess thyroid hormones.
The effects experienced after a thyroid surgery mostly depend on the amount of thyroid gland removed. In the case of a partial thyroidectomy, where a small portion to half of the thyroid gland is removed, the remaining part of the thyroid takes over the functions of the whole gland.
But in the case of a complete thyroidectomy, the whole gland will be removed, which prevents the production of thyroid hormones. The absence of thyroid hormones affects many bodily functions and leads to a condition called underactive thyroid. In such cases, you may experience symptoms like fatigue, weight gain, depression, muscle aches, dry skin, etc.
So, it is mandatory to take hormone replacement medication daily for the rest of your life. The medication is designed to replace the T3 and T4 hormones produced by the thyroid gland.
Do weight changes occur after a thyroidectomy?
The thyroid gland plays a key role in weight management. The removal of the thyroid gland is a life-changing procedure that may result in weight gain. Some studies say that there may not be any extreme weight gain after thyroidectomy. The amount of weight gain is not the same for every patient who has had a thyroidectomy. However, people with thyroid conditions like hyperthyroidism or thyroid cancer might experience sudden weight changes, especially weight gain.
Some researchers from Georgetown University carried out a study on a group of people who had undergone thyroidectomy procedures to explore the weight changes after surgery. To ensure normal thyroid function, the participants were given euthyroid medication. Within the first year, the participants gained noticeable weight compared to the participants who were taking thyroid medication without undergoing thyroidectomy.
Below are some possible causes of weight gain after surgery:
- Hormonal changes, especially those that regulate metabolism and weight, can result in weight gain.
- Without hormones released by the thyroid gland, metabolism might slow down, which leads to weight gain.
- Appetite changes are one of the thyroidectomy outcomes that may lead to more calorie consumption and weight gain.
- Thyroidectomy patients reportedly complain of a lack of energy as well as fatigue after surgery. In such cases, it becomes challenging to maintain physical fitness, resulting in weight gain.
Is weight gain unavoidable?
Weight gain after thyroidectomy might be a common concern, but it is manageable. With proper diet, medication, and lifestyle changes, you can avoid weight gain.
How do I manage weight after a thyroidectomy?
Collaborate with your health care team and other professionals to develop a customised diet and exercise plan to manage your weight and thyroid hormone levels.
Consider nutrient-dense foods, which include whole grains, fruits & vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid eating processed, packed, and fatty foods.
It is important to stay hydrated after surgery, as it helps to control hunger and boost metabolism.
Regular activity, which includes strength training and high-intensity interval training exercises, is one of the best ways to manage and prevent weight gain. It also improves your overall health.
Consider 7-8 hours of sleep every day because it helps regulate hunger hormones (leptin and ghrelin), which support your appetite.
A regular checkup is recommended to ensure the levels of thyroid hormone are within the normal range. This can help prevent many conditions related to thyroid hormone imbalances, including weight gain.
If you are having any thyroid problems and looking for the best thyroid doctor in Hyderabad, consult Dr. V. Pareek; he can help you manage your thyroid problem effectively.
He helped thousands of patients with his expertise and patient-centered treatment plans. Dr. V. Pareek’s extensive experience—more than 17 years in thyroid care—ensures accurate diagnosis and the best possible treatment. Call +91 91777 77715 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Vengopal Pareek today for better thyroid health.
