Can hypothyroidism lead to fat gain?
Yes, a less active thyroid will reduce metabolic rate and can cause some weight gain. It is not a lot of weight gain though, and a subactive thyroid is not an excuse for obesity (if hypothyroidic, please see a doctor for medication; it burns fat)
Last Updated:May 30, 2022
A little. Thyroid problems play a negligible role in obesity.
The American Thyroid Association states:
In general, 5-10 pounds of body weight may be attributable to the thyroid, depending on the severity of the hypothyroidism.[1]
Most of the weight gain directly associated with thyroid issues is negligible[2][3]. In fact, the average weight loss from treatment was 4.3kg, most of which was attributed to the excretion of excess body water[4][5]
Pre-existing obesity, a diagnosis of Graves' disease and prior weight loss independently predicted weight gain and weight continued to rise with time. [2]