Numerous conditions can cause decreased metabolism. According to the Kids Health website, metabolism refers to the chemical reactions in your body's cells that convert the fuel from food into usable energy. In a general sense, a metabolic disorder is any disease or condition that is caused by an abnormal chemical reaction in your body's cells. Certain diseases can cause one or more aspects of your metabolism to be low.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is an autoimmune condition that causes low metabolism. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, or NIDDK, hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland produces insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone to meet your body's needs. Without enough thyroid hormone, your metabolism is lowered and many of your body's functions slow down. Approximately 5 percent of Americans have hypothyroidism. The NIDDK states that women are more likely to develop this condition than men. Common signs and symptoms associated with hypothyroidism include low metabolism, fatigue, weight gain, puffy face, cold intolerance, joint and muscle pain, constipation, thinning hair, decreased sweating, irregular menstrual periods, depression and decreased heart rate. According to the NIDDK, you are more likely to develop hypothyroidism if you are over 60 years of age.
G6PD Deficiency
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, or G6PD, deficiency is a hereditary condition that can cause low cell metabolism. The Kids Health website states that G6PD is one of many enzymes that play a crucial role in cell metabolism. G6PD is generated by your red blood cells, and it helps your body process carbohydrates. Without sufficient G6PD to help your red blood cells manage certain harmful substances, your red blood cells may be damaged or destroyed, which leads to a condition called hemolytic anemia. According to the MedlinePlus website, common signs and symptoms associated with a G6PD deficiency include decreased cell metabolism, dark urine, enlarged spleen, fatigue, pallor, increased heart rate, shortness of breath and yellow skin color, or jaundice. The Kids Health website states that G6PD deficiency is usually treated by discontinuing medications that might be contributing to your condition or treating the illness or infection causing stress on your red blood cells.
Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a common cause of low metabolism. According to the American Diabetes Association, or ADA, type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes, affecting millions of Americans. Type 2 diabetes manifests when your body is unable to respond normally to insulin. If you are a type 2 diabetic, your body either does not produce enough insulin or your cells ignore the insulin your body does produce. Insulin is required by your body so that you can use glucose, or sugar, for energy. Insulin helps bring the sugar from your blood into your cells, where it can be converted into usable energy. The ADA states that when glucose accumulates in your blood instead of entering your cells, you may develop certain health complications, including organ damage. Common signs and symptoms associated with type 2 diabetes include decreased metabolism, increased thirst, frequent urination, extreme hunger, unintentional weight loss and fatigue.
Member Comments