Understanding Thyroid Weight Gain

 
Understanding Thyroid Weight Gain

If you're dealing with unexplainable weight gain, fatigue that doesn’t go away, brain fog, or a general feeling of being "off," your thyroid might be playing a bigger role than you think. Whether you’ve already been diagnosed with hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, or you’re still searching for answers, you're not alone in feeling frustrated by symptoms that don't seem to match your labs.

As a Naturopathic Doctor, I regularly work with individuals who feel unheard, despite ongoing symptoms. In this blog, we’ll unpack why thyroid-related weight gain happens, what to look for in testing, and how naturopathic support for hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis can help you feel more like yourself again.

The Thyroid-Metabolism Connection

Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that plays a big role in regulating metabolism, energy, digestion, and even mood. It does this by producing hormones, primarily T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), that act like your body’s metabolic “gas pedal.”

When thyroid function slows down (hypothyroidism), metabolism follows. This often results in:

  • Persistent fatigue

  • Weight gain or difficulty losing weight

  • Constipation

  • Dry skin and brittle nails

  • Brain fog or low mood

In Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, causing fluctuating or persistently low hormone levels.

Why Standard Testing May Miss The Full Picture

Most conventional thyroid testing includes only TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). While TSH is a useful marker, it doesn’t show how well your body is converting and using thyroid hormones. Many people have normal TSH but still experience symptoms.

A more comprehensive thyroid panel may include:

  • TSH

  • Free T4

  • Free T3

  • Anti-TPO and Anti-TG antibodies (for autoimmune screening)

  • Nutrient levels, inflammatory markers, and more!

As a Naturopathic Doctor focusing on thyroid health, I use a broader lens to assess thyroid health. This can be especially helpful if you're already on levothyroxine but still don’t feel better.

Understanding Thyroid Medications

The most commonly prescribed thyroid medication is levothyroxine (Synthroid®), which provides synthetic T4. While effective for many, some individuals struggle to convert T4 into the active T3 hormone that cells actually use.

For those who don’t respond well to T4 alone, natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) medications may be an option. NDT includes both T4 and T3 and may help improve symptoms in certain individuals. This decision should always be made with the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider who understands your full picture.

Natural Support for Hashimoto’s and Hypothyroidism

A holistic approach addresses more than just hormone levels. Here are some key areas we often explore:

nutrient deficiencies

  • Selenium, zinc, iron, vitamin D, and B12 are critical for thyroid hormone production and conversion.

  • Comprehensive blood work can guide supplementation.

digestive & liver health

  • The gut plays a role in converting T4 to T3.

  • Supporting the liver can also enhance hormone metabolism.

autoimmune modulation (for hashimoto’s)

  • Addressing triggers like gluten sensitivity, chronic stress, and infections may help reduce antibody levels.

  • Anti-inflammatory diets and herbs can be helpful in calming the immune system.

adrenal support

  • Chronic stress impacts thyroid function.

  • Adaptogenic herbs, proper sleep, and blood sugar balance are part of a complete support plan.

A Note on Weight Gain: It’s Not Just Calories In, Calories Out

Thyroid weight gain isn’t simply about willpower or food choices. When metabolism slows, your body holds onto energy more readily. Supporting your thyroid, reducing inflammation, improving sleep, and balancing blood sugar can help your body feel safe enough to release excess weight naturally.

A high-protein, anti-inflammatory meal plan, regular movement (not necessarily intense exercise), and proper sleep hygiene are all powerful, non-restrictive tools that support both thyroid and metabolic health.

Final Thoughts

If you’re tired of hearing that “your labs are normal” when you don’t feel normal, there are options. Integrative, evidence-informed care can help identify what’s being missed and support your thyroid with both conventional and natural therapies tailored to your body.

Book an appointment to explore comprehensive thyroid testing and natural options like nutrition, lifestyle, and supplementation. Let’s build a plan that helps you feel vibrant again.


Ready to make a change?

If you're curious to learn more about how to support your thyroid, I invite you to book a complimentary consultation with me here.

Take the first step towards a healthier you by scheduling your appointment today.

Yours in health,

Dr. Monica Velletri, ND