The thyroid, a butterfly-shaped organ at the base of the neck, is a "master gland" that helps regulate metabolism. Dysfunction impacts the production of hormones, the ability to burn calories, and much more. An underactive thyroid — hypothyroidism — could cause issues including emotional upset, goiter, and weight gain. Typically, advanced hypothyroidism correlates to greater weight gain. However, most of the extra pounds are due to salt and water accumulation. This condition alone rarely causes substantial weight gain.

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