When a patient has hypothyroidism, what is the primary effect on their metabolism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition characterized by an underactive thyroid gland, which results in insufficient production of thyroid hormones. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, which involves how the body converts food into energy. When a patient has hypothyroidism, the primary effect on their metabolism is slower energy conversion. This means that the body’s ability to utilize energy from nutrients is diminished, leading to a reduced metabolic rate.

As a result, individuals with hypothyroidism may experience fatigue, weight gain, and difficulty losing weight, primarily due to this slowdown in energy conversion. This decreased metabolic rate contrasts with an increased energy expenditure, which would instead indicate hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid is overactive. The option indicating no effect on metabolism is not accurate, as hypothyroidism clearly impacts metabolic processes. Additionally, while weight gain can be a consequence of hypothyroidism, the term 'increased weight loss' would signify an opposite metabolic effect not related to this condition. Therefore, the correct description of the primary effect of hypothyroidism on metabolism is that it leads to slower energy conversion.