It is very hard to loose weight and keep it off no doubt about that! But I have to say your “using thyroid as an excuse for not loosing weight” is very hurtful! I have had thyroid issues for 6 years, then it “developed into cancer” and had to be removed. When it wasn’t functioning before cancer I was exhausted all the time, heart palpitations and felt foggy headed but managed to care of my family. It was a huge struggle, after getting put on medication 7 years now, I gained weight even though I was walking 8-12 miles, watching my diet (low carb) and exercising daily. 1 year post cancer surgery I struggle to maintain my weight, fatigue and stigma from weigh gain from medications.. I gained 10 lbs even while watching my eating, fasting, cutting calories down to less than 1000 and exercising after starting medication. I think the medicines work but they sure make it very difficult to loose or maintain weight.