Question

Which one of the following could be one reason for a person to be overweight?

• A. Defect in hormone release from the posterior pituitary.
• B. Abnormal level of endorphins.
• C. Hyposecretion of oxytocin.
• D. Undersecretion of thyroxine.

Answer 1

The correct option is D Undersecretion of thyroxine.

Decreased production of thyroxine by the thyroid gland is known as hypothyroidism. It may be caused by autoimmune diseases, poor iodine intake or brought on by the use of certain drugs. Sometimes, the cause is unknown. Hypothyroidism in adults causes a decreased metabolic rate. This results in symptoms which include fatigue, weight gain intolerance of cold temperatures, low heart rate, reduced appetite, etc. Thyroid hormones are essential for physical and mental development so hypothyroidism during development or before birth and during childhood causes mental impairment and reduced physical growth.