Is Belly Fat a Sign of a Thyroid Issue?

Have you been struggling with stubborn belly fat that just won’t go away, no matter how much you diet or exercise? It can be frustrating to feel like you’re doing everything right but still not seeing results. If this sounds familiar, your thyroid might be the missing piece of the puzzle.

Your thyroid is a small gland in your neck that controls your metabolism. Metabolism is how your body burns calories and turns food into energy. 

How Thyroid Issues Can Lead to Belly Fat

When your thyroid isn’t making enough hormones to keep your metabolism running smoothly, it’s called hypothyroidism. With hypothyroidism, your metabolism slows down, and your body doesn’t burn calories as efficiently. This means that even if you’re eating healthy and exercising regularly, you might still notice weight gain, particularly around your midsection.

Belly fat can be a sign that your body is storing extra calories... 

because it’s not burning them at the right rate. This is why people with thyroid issues often notice stubborn weight gain in their belly area that seems impossible to lose. The slower your metabolism, the more likely you are to hold onto fat, even if you’re trying your best to stay active and eat well.

Another factor at play is the stress hormone cortisol. When your thyroid is out of balance, it can trigger an increase in cortisol levels. Cortisol is known to cause fat storage, particularly in the belly. If you’re dealing with a thyroid problem, it can create a cycle where your body holds onto belly fat, making it even harder to slim down in that area.

Why Work with a Functional Medicine Practitioner?

If you’re struggling with belly fat and suspect your thyroid might be involved, working with a functional medicine practitioner is the best course of action. Functional medicine takes a holistic approach, meaning your practitioner will look at your whole body and health history—not just the belly fat. They’ll dive deep into understanding why your thyroid might be causing your metabolism to slow down and why your body is holding onto fat.

Functional medicine practitioners also create personalized plans that fit your specific needs. They consider your diet, lifestyle, and stress levels to find natural ways to support your thyroid and get your metabolism back on track. With their guidance, you can take steps to address the root cause of the belly fat and finally start to see results.

If you’re ready to take control of your health and find out if your thyroid is behind your stubborn belly fat, contact a functional medicine practitioner today.