Never Well Since Covid? Understanding Chronic Illness and Weight Gain

Uncontrollable Weight Gain After Illness? You’re Not Alone

Chronic infections can leave your body in a heightened state of alarm. This can lead to unwanted weight gain and various health issues. These viruses are often sneaky and can evade detection, affecting your overall well-being.

Another key contributor is chronic stress. Stress reduces your body's ability to fight infections effectively. It may also reactivate dormant viruses, leading to outbreaks such as cold sores and herpes. This reactivation often involves viruses from the herpesvirus family, particularly Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and Cytomegalovirus (CMV). Both of these infections are associated with autoimmune diseases, raising important questions about their impact on health.

What Causes Autoimmune Responses?

Why do infections trigger autoimmune responses? Molecular mimicry is a leading theory. This occurs when the immune system mistakes certain proteins on viruses as targets. For instance, in Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the immune system may mistakenly attack the thyroid. This can happen even after the virus has been cleared from your body.

Symptoms of Thyroid Dysfunction

If you suspect you are experiencing thyroid dysfunction, it's crucial to be aware of the symptoms. Common signs of hypothyroidism include:

• Weight gain

• Constipation

• Tiredness

• Feeling cold

• Depression

• Hair loss

• Weakness and aches

• Dry skin

• Lack of concentration

• Heavy or irregular periods

  
  

Additionally, Hashimoto's symptoms, which often overlap with hypothyroidism, might include leaky gut symptoms and food sensitivities.

What Can Be Done About Thyroid Dysfunction?

If you believe you are suffering from thyroid dysfunction, your first step should be to consult your doctor for a complete thyroid panel test. Ask about the following labs:

• TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone)

• Free T4 (Thyroxine)

• Free T3 (Triiodothyronine)

• Reverse T3

• Thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO)

• Thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb)

  
  

If your doctor indicates that your lab numbers are “normal,” but you still experience symptoms, you might have subclinical thyroid dysfunction. It's important to remember that “normal” is not the same as optimal. Being “normal” is often based on averages that may not represent a healthy person.

The Importance of Testing Antibody Markers

When dealing with thyroid health, it’s vital to test for antibody markers. Autoimmune conditions, such as Hashimoto's and Graves’ disease, typically accompany hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The autoimmune aspect often surfaces before hypothyroid symptoms appear. Catching elevated antibody levels early can be instrumental in preventing the progression to hypothyroid conditions.

Dietary Changes and Their Impact

If you are diagnosed with Hashimoto's or hypothyroidism, consider eliminating gluten and dairy from your diet. The principle of molecular mimicry applies here; your immune system may react to gluten and dairy similarly to how it reacts to certain infections. It is also advisable to restrict grains, legumes, soy, and raw goitrogens. Depending on your sensitivity and the level of damage to your gut, you may also want to avoid eggs and nightshades.

Supplements That Support Thyroid Function

In addition to dietary changes, certain supplements can support thyroid health. Key supplements include:

• Iodine (start low and go slow)

• Tyrosine

• Selenium

• Zinc

• Iron

• Omega-3 fatty acids

• Vitamin D3 (especially paired with K2)

• B vitamins

• Vitamin A

  
  

Need Help with Your Symptoms?

If you resonate with any of the symptoms mentioned and think you may have thyroid dysfunction, I am here to help. I’d be happy to chat with you and discuss your symptoms. Together, we can determine if lab testing is a worthwhile step for you.

Additional Support and Resources

You are welcome to reach out with any questions. Feel free to book a free 15-minute discovery call or email me at AmyRobinsonCHOM@gmail.com.

If you found this article helpful, please share it with a friend who may be struggling with thyroid dysfunction.