People who try to lose weight through diet and exercise but can't may have a clinical condition, not just poor lifestyle choices.

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive. It causes symptoms like fatigue and low mood.

A common symptom is gaining weight despite a healthy lifestyle. Patients try many diets and fitness plans with no results, leading to frustration and depression.

Undiagnosed thyroid issues can mean diets and exercise don't work.

Hypothyroidism symptoms include:

Untreated symptoms can get worse over time, causing heart and bone problems.

The NHS says some symptoms are common and can be caused by other conditions, but it's essential to get them checked.

Hypothyroidism is usually managed with medicine to replace the missing hormone. Patients take this medication for life to avoid symptoms returning.

A GP may examine the neck and order blood tests if a thyroid condition is suspected. Hypothyroidism is more common in women than men.

A GP may examine the neck and order blood tests if a thyroid problem is suspected.

Hypothyroidism often occurs during menopause, and its symptoms can be ignored as menopause signs. Around 1-2% of the population has hypothyroidism.

The condition can be caused by an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the thyroid cells, known as Hashimoto's disease.

Other common causes of hypothyroidism include: