Autoimmune diseases are a group of conditions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to inflammation and damage.

While autoimmune diseases can affect any part of the body, some of them can cause weight changes, either weight gain or weight loss. Here are six autoimmune diseases that can cause weight changes:.

1. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis

Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. The disease leads to the destruction of the thyroid gland, which can cause an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

Hypothyroidism can slow down the metabolism, leading to weight gain. People with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may also experience fatigue, depression, and muscle weakness.

2. Graves’ disease

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the thyroid gland. The disease leads to the overproduction of thyroid hormone, which can cause an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Hyperthyroidism can speed up the metabolism, leading to weight loss. People with Graves’ disease may also experience anxiety, irritability, and tremors.

3. Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that affects the pancreas. The disease leads to the destruction of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, which can cause insulin deficiency.

Insulin deficiency can lead to uncontrolled blood sugar levels, which can cause weight loss. People with type 1 diabetes may also experience thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision.

4. Celiac disease

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the small intestine. The disease leads to damage to the lining of the small intestine, which can cause malabsorption of nutrients. Malabsorption of nutrients can lead to weight loss.

People with celiac disease may also experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating.

5. Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints. The disease leads to inflammation of the joints, which can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. People with rheumatoid arthritis may also experience fatigue, fever, and weight loss.

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause weight loss due to decreased appetite and increased energy expenditure due to inflammation.

6. Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can affect any part of the body, including the skin, joints, and organs. The disease leads to inflammation, which can cause pain, fatigue, and weight loss.

Lupus can cause weight loss due to decreased appetite and increased energy expenditure due to inflammation. People with lupus may also experience skin rashes, joint pain, and kidney problems.

If you are experiencing unexplained weight changes, it is important to talk to your doctor. Autoimmune diseases can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms can be vague and non-specific. A proper diagnosis is crucial for getting the right treatment.