Ailments that impede fat reduction
Julia Wójcik
2026-03-18
4 min. read
1 / 1
1 zdjęcie
224
views
The process of reducing adipose tissue is protracted and intricate. Correct functioning necessitates a diet with a negative calorie balance and physical activity that increases energy deficit and influences muscle mass maintenance. Could weight loss still be challenging despite sticking to a diet and engaging in exercise? Are there any ailments that could hinder adipose tissue reduction?
Thyroid gland function disorders
The most common disorders of thyroid gland function include hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism as well as Hashimoto's disease (autoimmune thyroiditis). Hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism occurs significantly more often in women than in men. Women over the age of 45 (menopause) are particularly susceptible to thyroid dysfunction due to hormonal changes that occur at this age. The absence of weight-loss effects despite a negative calorie balance diet may indicate a thyroid dysfunction. Why? The thyroid gland produces two hormones that are essential for the normal functioning of the body: tetraiodothyronine (thyroxine, T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate, among other things, the functioning of the nervous and circulatory systems and water and electrolyte metabolism. They also influence energy metabolism, heat production, protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism, and calcium-phosphate metabolism. Any disturbance in thyroid function can slow down bodily functions, leading to weight gain. In hypothyroidism, there is an increased production of TSH (a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release thyroid hormones) and a reduced production of thyroid hormones. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include chronic fatigue, constipation, dry skin and hair, muscle weakness, pain, and increased sensitivity to cold. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune inflammatory condition of the thyroid
Hashimoto's disease is a category of conditions that have an autoimmune basis. In the majority of cases, it affects individuals between the ages of 30 and 50. The disease is the leading cause of thyroid insufficiency. Thyroid insufficiency is in most cases linked to being overweight and obese. It is important to note that Hashimoto's disease does not produce any symptoms on its own. However, the progressive deterioration of the thyroid eventually results in its insufficiency. Due to the fact that Hashimoto's disease is classified as an autoimmune condition, its occurrence may be associated with an increased risk of other diseases, such as Type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, or celiac disease. Following diagnosis, it is important to make changes in lifestyle, including avoiding stress, getting enough sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, as well as a balanced diet with anti-inflammatory properties (e.g. Mediterranean diet).
Polycystic ovary syndrome, often referred to as PCOS, is a disorder that predominantly affects women of reproductive age.
PCOS is frequently linked with obesity, which is one of the first symptoms that prompts women to undergo tests. Furthermore, PCOS is characterized by irregular periods (or complete absence), hyperandrogenism, and the presence of cysts in the ovaries that are detected through ultrasound.
Insulin insensitivity
Insulin insensitivity is a disease that falls under the category of metabolic disorders. The insulin level in the blood is normal or elevated, yet the tissues gradually become less responsive to it. The pancreas continues to produce a certain amount of insulin, but the tissue's sensitivity to insulin decreases. The functions of insulin (regulation of blood glucose levels) are impaired. It is crucial to emphasize that obesity is not a consequence of insulin insensitivity, but an excess of fat tissue is its cause, although its occurrence is also often genetically determined. Insulin insensitivity can lead to chronic fatigue, concentration disorders, energy loss, especially after eating, and hunger attacks. To obtain a diagnosis, a metabolic test should be performed.
Summary
An insufficient weight loss does not always have to be attributed to dietary mistakes or training errors. In certain circumstances, diseases can influence the lack of results and even lead to weight gain. A balanced diet and physical activity have a beneficial impact on human health. Even in the case of illness, it is worth seeking the advice of a doctor and a nutritionist to determine a suitable plan of action in terms of fat reduction.
