Can you lose weight with hypothyroidism. How does hypothyroidism affect weight management. What dietary changes support weight loss in hypothyroidism. Which lifestyle factors are crucial for managing weight with an underactive thyroid. How long does it typically take to lose weight with hypothyroidism.

Understanding Hypothyroidism and Its Impact on Weight

Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder characterized by insufficient production of thyroid hormones. This condition can lead to various symptoms, including weight gain and difficulty losing weight. The relationship between hypothyroidism and weight management is complex, involving several factors:

• Lowered energy levels, resulting in reduced physical activity
• Slightly decreased metabolic rate
• Tendency to retain excess fluid in tissues
• Alterations in glucose processing and fat metabolism

While weight gain due to hypothyroidism is typically modest, usually around 5-10 pounds, many individuals struggle to lose weight despite following healthy diets and exercise routines. Research indicates that even minor shifts in thyroid function can be associated with weight gain.

Can You Lose Weight with Hypothyroidism?

Is it possible to shed pounds when dealing with an underactive thyroid? The answer is yes, but it requires a tailored approach. Successful weight loss with hypothyroidism involves:

1. Consistent, healthy dietary choices
2. Comprehensive assessment of hormonal balance, including thyroid and other related hormones
3. Proper diagnosis and treatment of any underlying imbalances
4. Patience and persistence in following a structured plan

By addressing these factors, individuals with hypothyroidism can achieve and maintain weight loss, though it may require more effort and time compared to those without thyroid issues.

Optimal Dietary Strategies for Hypothyroidism Weight Loss

What dietary approaches are most effective for losing weight with hypothyroidism? While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, several strategies have shown promise:

1. Limit Simple Carbohydrates and Sugars

Why should individuals with hypothyroidism be cautious about simple carbs? These foods can spike blood sugar levels and potentially increase inflammation. Instead, focus on:

• Complex carbohydrates from starchy vegetables and legumes
• Low to moderate carbohydrate intake
• Avoiding high glycemic load foods like sugary drinks and refined grains

It’s crucial to maintain adequate calorie intake, as insufficient calories can trigger a stress response, potentially worsening hypothyroidism by decreasing T3 production.

2. Embrace Anti-Inflammatory Foods

How can an anti-inflammatory diet benefit those with hypothyroidism? Many individuals with this condition have overactive immune systems. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods can help:

• Soothe the immune system
• Reduce excessive inflammation
• Support intake of essential nutrients for thyroid function

Key nutrients to focus on include zinc, magnesium, vitamin C, B vitamins, iron, and selenium. Some excellent anti-inflammatory food choices are:

• Leafy green vegetables
• Fatty fish rich in omega-3s
• Colorful fruits and vegetables
• Nuts and seeds
• Olive oil

An anti-inflammatory diet also reduces the burden on the liver, which is crucial for thyroid hormone conversion. The liver is responsible for converting 60% of T4 to the active T3 hormone.

Essential Factors for Successful Weight Loss with Hypothyroidism

Beyond dietary changes, what other factors play a crucial role in managing weight with hypothyroidism? Consider these essential elements:

1. Regular Medical Reviews

Why are consistent check-ups important? Regular medical reviews ensure:

• Appropriate thyroid replacement treatment
• Normalization of thyroid hormone levels
• Potential initial weight loss due to excess fluid excretion

2. Adequate Sleep

How does sleep impact weight loss efforts in hypothyroidism? Sufficient sleep is crucial for several reasons:

• Regulates hunger hormones
• Supports metabolic function
• Enhances energy levels for physical activity
• Reduces stress, which can affect thyroid function

3. Proper Hydration

Why is water intake important for weight loss in hypothyroidism? Adequate hydration:

• Supports metabolic processes
• Helps distinguish between hunger and thirst
• May enhance the feeling of fullness
• Assists in reducing water retention

The Role of Exercise in Hypothyroidism Weight Loss

How does exercise contribute to weight management in individuals with hypothyroidism? Regular physical activity is beneficial for several reasons:

• Boosts metabolism
• Increases energy expenditure
• Improves insulin sensitivity
• Enhances mood and reduces stress
• Supports overall thyroid function

What types of exercise are most effective? A combination of cardio and strength training is often recommended:

1. Low-impact cardio: Walking, swimming, or cycling
2. Strength training: Resistance exercises to build muscle mass
3. Yoga or Pilates: For flexibility and stress reduction

It’s important to start slowly and gradually increase intensity, especially if fatigue is a significant symptom of your hypothyroidism.

Supplements and Hypothyroidism: What to Consider

Should individuals with hypothyroidism take specific supplements for weight loss? While proper nutrition is crucial for thyroid health, caution is advised when it comes to supplements:

• Avoid thyroid-specific supplements unless prescribed by a healthcare provider
• Focus on obtaining nutrients through a balanced diet
• Consult with a doctor before starting any new supplement regimen

Why is caution necessary with supplements? Some supplements marketed for thyroid health may:

• Interfere with thyroid medication absorption
• Contain excessive amounts of iodine, which can worsen thyroid function in some cases
• Interact with other medications

Instead of relying on supplements, prioritize a nutrient-dense, well-balanced diet to support thyroid function and overall health.

Tracking Progress: Realistic Expectations for Weight Loss

How long does it typically take to lose weight with hypothyroidism? Weight loss with an underactive thyroid can be a gradual process. Consider these factors:

• Initial weight loss may occur when thyroid hormone levels are first normalized
• Sustainable weight loss often happens at a rate of 0.5 to 2 pounds per week
• Progress may be slower compared to individuals without thyroid issues
• Consistency in diet and exercise is key for long-term success

What are some effective ways to track progress beyond the scale?

1. Take body measurements
2. Monitor energy levels and mood
3. Track improvements in thyroid symptoms
4. Note changes in clothing fit
5. Keep a journal of non-scale victories

Remember, weight is just one aspect of overall health. Focus on how you feel and the improvements in your symptoms as you make positive lifestyle changes.

Managing Stress for Improved Thyroid Function and Weight Loss

How does stress impact thyroid function and weight management? Chronic stress can have significant effects on thyroid health and weight loss efforts:

• Increases cortisol production, which can interfere with thyroid hormone function
• May lead to emotional eating and poor food choices
• Disrupts sleep patterns, affecting metabolism and hunger hormones
• Can exacerbate thyroid symptoms, including fatigue and weight gain

What are some effective stress management techniques for individuals with hypothyroidism?

1. Mindfulness meditation
2. Deep breathing exercises
3. Regular physical activity
4. Adequate sleep hygiene
5. Engaging in hobbies or enjoyable activities
6. Seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist

Incorporating stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine can support overall thyroid health and enhance weight loss efforts.

The Importance of Personalized Care in Hypothyroidism Weight Management

Why is individualized treatment crucial for managing weight with hypothyroidism? Each person’s experience with hypothyroidism is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective. Consider these factors:

• Variability in thyroid hormone levels and medication needs
• Differences in metabolic rates and energy expenditure
• Underlying health conditions that may impact weight loss
• Personal food preferences and lifestyle factors

How can you ensure you’re receiving personalized care?

1. Work closely with an endocrinologist or thyroid specialist
2. Regularly monitor thyroid hormone levels and adjust treatment as needed
3. Consider consulting with a registered dietitian familiar with thyroid disorders
4. Explore potential underlying issues, such as insulin resistance or hormonal imbalances
5. Be open with your healthcare team about your symptoms, concerns, and goals

By taking a personalized approach, you can develop a weight management plan that addresses your specific needs and supports your overall thyroid health.

Navigating Social Situations and Maintaining Motivation

How can individuals with hypothyroidism stay on track with their weight loss goals in social situations? Dining out and attending social events can present challenges, but with some planning, you can maintain your progress:

• Research restaurant menus in advance and choose thyroid-friendly options
• Don’t be afraid to ask for modifications to meals
• Eat a small, healthy snack before events to avoid overeating
• Focus on socializing and enjoying company, rather than just food
• Bring a healthy dish to share at gatherings

What strategies can help maintain motivation during the weight loss journey?

1. Set realistic, achievable goals
2. Celebrate non-scale victories, such as improved energy or better sleep
3. Join support groups or online communities for individuals with hypothyroidism
4. Keep a journal to track progress and reflect on challenges
5. Reward yourself with non-food treats for reaching milestones
6. Visualize your success and the positive impact on your health

Remember that weight loss with hypothyroidism is a journey, not a race. Staying motivated and consistent with healthy habits is key to long-term success.

The Role of Gut Health in Thyroid Function and Weight Management

How does gut health relate to thyroid function and weight loss? The connection between gut health and thyroid function is becoming increasingly recognized:

• The gut microbiome plays a role in the conversion of T4 to active T3 hormone
• Gut inflammation can interfere with thyroid hormone absorption
• Certain gut bacteria may influence thyroid hormone levels
• A healthy gut supports overall metabolism and weight management

What strategies can improve gut health for individuals with hypothyroidism?

1. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut
2. Consume prebiotic fibers found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
3. Stay hydrated to support digestive function
4. Consider working with a healthcare provider to address any underlying gut issues
5. Minimize processed foods and artificial additives that may disrupt gut balance

By focusing on gut health, you may enhance thyroid function and support your weight loss efforts.

Future Directions in Hypothyroidism and Weight Management Research

What areas of research hold promise for improving weight management in hypothyroidism? Several exciting avenues are being explored:

• Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic profiles
• Novel thyroid hormone analogs with potential metabolic benefits
• Further understanding of the gut-thyroid axis and its impact on weight
• Exploration of circadian rhythms and their influence on thyroid function
• Development of more sensitive thyroid function tests for earlier diagnosis and treatment

How might these advancements benefit individuals with hypothyroidism?

1. More targeted and effective treatments
2. Improved understanding of individual variations in thyroid function
3. Better strategies for weight management tailored to thyroid health
4. Potential for earlier intervention and prevention of weight gain
5. Enhanced quality of life for those living with hypothyroidism

While these areas of research are promising, it’s important to focus on current evidence-based strategies for managing weight with hypothyroidism. Stay informed about new developments and discuss them with your healthcare provider to determine the best approach for your individual needs.

Four Effective Weight Loss And Diet Tips

Content

• Overview
• Can you lose weight with hypothyroidism?
• What is the best weight loss diet for hypothyroidism?
• How long does it take to lose weight with hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder where your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. It’s a common disorder that can cause a number of symptoms like reproductive problems, a poor ability to tolerate cold, tiredness, and weight gain. Generally, hypothyroidism is associated with slowing your metabolism, hence the symptoms. Many individuals wonder how they can lose weight with hypothyroidism.

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A common struggle of people dealing with thyroid disease is an inability to lose weight even though they exercise and follow a healthy diet. If this is something you can relate to, you might feel like you’re immune to the effects of even strict exercise programs and rigorous diets. You may even find you’re gaining weight although weight gain due to hypothyroidism is generally modest at 5-10lb.

The process by which weight gain is caused by an underactive thyroid or an inability to lose weight is not understood very well, but a few important factors are thought to be involved:

• Lowered energy, which results in less exercise and movement

• Slightly slower metabolism

• Tendency to hold on to excess fluid in tissues

• Changes to how your body stores, processes, and burns off glucose and fat

For some individuals, unsuccessful weight-loss efforts are due to a thyroid disorder. And, researchers agree that even slight thyroid function shifts¹ are associated with weight gain.

The good news is, it is possible to lose weight even with hypothyroidism, but it will take a specific approach. This approach means consistently making the right dietary choices and the assessment of your hormones, including those beyond your thyroid. Through the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of any imbalance you have, you should be able to achieve and maintain weight loss.

Having hypothyroidism doesn’t have to prevent you from eating foods you love. There are a number of healthy food options you can choose from. However, there are some considerations you’ll need to take, including:

1. Avoid simple carbs and sugars

Avoid simple sugars (i.e. soda and candy). Try a low- to moderate- carbohydrate diet that centers on complex carbohydrates like starchy legumes and vegetables.

Foods that have a high glycemic load (i.e. sugary drinks and refined grain products) might increase body inflammation, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University². It’s essential that you’re eating enough calories since insufficient calories can lead to a stress response, resulting in decreased T3 (the active triiodothyronine thyroid hormone) production and, therefore, worsening hypothyroidism.

2. Required Essentials

Whatever exercise plan or diet you’re following, there are three essential requirements that you’ll want to add to your weight loss plan:

• Regular medical reviews to ensure you’re on appropriate thyroid replacement treatment to normalize your thyroid hormone levels. Initial normalization of thyroid hormone levels can lead to some weight loss due to the excess fluid being excreted. 

• Adequate sleep: Getting enough sleep³ is important for weight loss for various reasons.

• Drink enough water: Hydration and water intake are associated with more successful weight-loss efforts.

3. Consume more anti-inflammatory foods

People with hypothyroidism often have immune systems that are in overdrive. Anti-inflammatory foods could help soothe your immune system.

An anti-inflammatory diet can help with excessive inflammation, calm your immune system and support sufficient intake of important nutrients you need for healthy thyroid function, including:

• Zinc

• Magnesium

• Vitamin C

• B vitamins

• Iron

• Selenium

Some foods that are good for tackling inflammation are:

An anti-inflammatory diet also reduces the burden on your liver when it comes to metabolizing highly processed foods. It’s important to maintain healthy liver function since your liver converts 60% of T4 (the thyroxine thyroid hormone) to T3.⁴

4. Avoid thyroid-specific supplements

Eating a nutritious diet that offers you optimal nutrients is no doubt important for thyroid health. A deficiency in different nutrients may lead to thyroid problems.

Still, for individuals who are not experiencing thyroid problems and are following a nutrient-dense and well-balanced diet, there’s usually no need to take supplements for the thyroid.

In fact, certain supplements that are advertised for thyroid health might be harmful to take. For instance, some thyroid supplements contain high levels of iodine and might contain thyroid hormones. Supplements like these could create thyroid problems and cause dangerous side effects⁵ in individuals with healthy thyroid function.

When you have hypothyroidism, it can be a challenge to lose weight, and your thyroid medicine might be part of the problem. If you’re seeking to lose weight with thyroid medication, first, it’s critical that you get the right dose, and you’ll also need to consider the timing of when you take it. There are times when you might have to supplement it with another type of medicine.

For the sake of your weight-loss efforts and overall health, it’s essential that you work closely with your doctor to truly benefit from thyroid therapy.

One study⁶ found around 52% of patients that took LT4 treatment lost weight within 24 months. They experienced overall modest weight loss with an 8.4 – 9.7lb mean weight loss.

If your thyroid level isn’t where it needs to be when you take your medicine, it might affect your ability to lose weight. You should speak with your doctor about treatment adjustments if needed.

Another essential complement to a healthy diet when it comes to burning calories is exercise. But, this varies for each individual case. If you’re extremely fatigued, exercise could suppress hypothyroidism further. If you’ve managed your hypothyroidism properly and have the energy required, exercise is encouraged. Your doctor can give you advice on how to get started with an effective exercise routine.

Six Tips on How to Lose Weight with Hypothyroidism

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Published:

February 25, 2021

Last Updated:

February 26, 2021

For people who have an underactive thyroid, also called hypothyroidism, losing weight can be a long and difficult – but not impossible – process. You may have to work a little harder than someone with a normal thyroid, but there are some steps you can take to get on track and kick off your weight loss journey, even with hypothyroidism.

Your thyroid and you

The thyroid, part of the endocrine system, is a butterfly-shaped gland located near the lower front of the neck. The endocrine system is made up of glands and organs that are responsible for releasing hormones into the bloodstream and signaling for them to travel to different parts of the body. The endocrine system is similar to the nervous system in the way it controls and regulates some bodily functions, but the endocrine system uses hormones as chemical transmitters, unlike the nervous system, which uses nerves and neurotransmitters.

The endocrine system helps regulate several bodily functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, growth and development, sexual function, and metabolism. The thyroid is the gland that controls your metabolism, working to produce hormones like thyroxine and triiodothyronine, known commonly as T4 and T3, respectively. Together, they’re referred to as the thyroid hormones (TH).

When the thyroid is operating normally, it produces the right amount of hormones, and your metabolism acts normally. But when your thyroid is underactive or overactive, your body won’t receive the amount of hormones you need to keep your metabolism running as it should. In the case of hypothyroidism, your thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormones, which usually leads to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.

In some instances, diet and exercise regimens can help get your thyroid back to peak performance, but medications are sometimes needed to regulate hormone production. Only a physician can clinically diagnose thyroid dysfunction, and any medication or supplements to manage thyroid hormones should be managed by your doctor or healthcare team.

Signs of hypothyroidism

When your thyroid gland is underactive, your metabolism slows down; a slow metabolism often translates to weight gain. But there are more signs that you may have hypothyroidism than unexplained weight gain, including:­

• Swollen or tender neck – Be aware of any tenderness or swelling on your neck, specifically around the larynx (the small knot in your throat that moves up and down when swallowing). Unusual ear or jaw pain, difficulty swallowing, and a hoarse, raspy voice are also concerns you should bring to your physician.

• Fatigue – Sleep issues and general fatigue are common complaints of people with thyroid issues. With hypothyroidism, you may wake up exhausted even after a “good” night’s sleep, begin to take (or take longer) naps, or constantly feel like you’re fighting to stay awake.

• Stiff joints and muscle cramps – With hypothyroidism, you may have an achiness in your muscles or joints, specifically in your extremities. There’s also research that links rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with thyroid disorders, and RA can cause painful swelling in your joints.

• Depression and anxiety – Mood disorders are not uncommon in people who have undiagnosed and/or untreated hypothyroidism. Depression, anxiety, and diminished concentration may occur in those with hypothyroidism because the thyroid contributes to brain function. An underactive thyroid doesn’t produce enough TH for the brain to function properly, leading to brain fog and irritability.

• Dry skin – Low TH affects rapidly growing cells like hair follicles and skin cells. Low TH interrupts the reception of the growth signals that your skin cells receive from your thyroid, resulting in longer skin cell turnover, which can lead to dry, flaky skin.

• Sensitivity to cold – Hypothyroidism lowers your metabolism, which can lead to a drop in your core body temperature. This can lead to the feeling of being cold all the time, especially in the hands or feet, even in summer months or warmer temperatures.

If you think you may be suffering from hypothyroidism or any thyroid disease, consult your doctor immediately.

Losing weight with hypothyroidism

While it can be more difficult for people with hypothyroidism to lose weight and maintain that weight loss, it’s not impossible. Controlled portion sizes and regular exercise are good advice for the general population, but those dealing with an underactive thyroid can also try these six tips to assist their weight loss efforts:

1. Get enough sleep.

Good sleep health should be a priority for everyone, but especially for people with hypothyroidism. The National Sleep Foundation suggests an average of 7–9 hours of uninterrupted sleep for adults each night. For people with severe thyroid disease, the fatigue they experience can become debilitating and impair their everyday lives.

If you’re currently on medication to treat hypothyroidism and still suffer from a debilitating level of fatigue, you may want to consult your doctor about adjusting your medication.

2. Stay hydrated.

When you feel the need to chug water, the reason is usually that you simply haven’t been drinking enough of it. Spending time in the sun or exercising can also dehydrate you, but this level of dehydration is usually satiated by a glass or two of water. The dehydration that accompanies hypothyroidism can be severe and can exacerbate other symptoms you may be experiencing, like dry skin.

The human body is approximately 60% water, and maintaining and even increasing your daily fluid intake (a recommended 11.5 cups for women and 15.5 cups for men per day) is a good way to keep yourself hydrated. Yes – this is a lot more than the eight cups of water that are usually recommended! If you’re struggling to drink more water, check out these easy ways to make hydrating more flavorful and enjoyable.

3. Eat smaller, more frequent meals.

Hypothyroidism often slows digestive function, causing your body to hang on to fat instead of burning it for energy. Changing the standard three meals a day into smaller, more frequent meals can support your metabolism and balance blood sugar levels. Eating later in the day, when your metabolism is naturally slower, can impede your weight loss efforts, too.

Keeping a food diary or journal can help you remember exactly what you ate and when. Journaling allows you to go back to see what foods you ate on days you felt unwell. Working with a registered dietitian or nutritionist can help you best figure out how to make each of your smaller meals as impactful as possible.

4. Stick to whole foods.

While there are several specific diets offered to those dealing with thyroid disease, the more tried-and-true advice is to simply eat whole foods. “While many times doctors will recommend anyone with autoimmune conditions (including autoimmune thyroid diseases) to ditch gluten, it’s best to talk to your specific doctor before you do. For those, like me, who avoid gluten, this bread is just the thing to conquer those bread desires. In addition, it’s full of tyrosine (an important amino acid) thanks to the pumpkin, sunflower seeds, and eggs,” says IIN graduate and Health Coach Kiran Dodeja Smith.

Focusing on lean proteins, vegetables, fermented foods, and anti-inflammatory ingredients is also a safe bet. Some of these foods include:

• Chicken
• Eggs
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Green tea
• Kombucha
• Seafood (especially with healthy fats like omega-3s)

5. Keep active.

Exercising regularly is important and complements a healthy diet in order to burn calories, but for someone with hypothyroidism, it can be difficult to maintain a workout regimen. Finding ways to stay active besides going to the gym may be a good alternative. Swimming, hiking, yoga, and biking can all be easier on joints and still get your heart rate up.

6. Explore supplements.

There are several supplements that can help either boost thyroid function or at least mitigate some of the side effects of having an underactive thyroid. As always, consult your personal healthcare provider before starting any new or adjusted supplement regimen:

• Selenium – Found in meat proteins, fish, and rice, selenium has been shown to improve inflammation markers related to hypothyroidism.
• Iodine – Iodine is essential to healthy
• Glutathione – A 2018 study showed the antioxidant glutathione  helps fight the oxidative stress that leads to inflammation and can lead to weight loss when combined with dietary changes. Glutathione-rich foods include avocados, spinach, asparagus, and okra.
• Tyrosine – Tyrosine is an important amino acid to include if your thyroid levels are low. Good sources of tyrosine include wheat, peanuts, pumpkin seeds, beef, fish, bananas, cheese, and avocados.
• Curcumin – As the primary component of turmeric, curcumin fights inflammation, promotes a healthy heart, and relieves joint pain associated with chronic diseases, like hypothyroidism.

The bottom line 

Losing weight with hypothyroidism is hard; there’s no doubt about it. Work with your doctor to determine the best way to keep your body healthy. Embracing IIN’s core concept of bio-individuality speaks to this idea, too; knowing your body best is the first step in your health journey. Learn more about how an IIN education can help you kick-start this journey by downloading our Curriculum Guide today.

Author Biography

Katy Weniger

,

IIN Content Writer

Katy holds a bachelor’s in English with a concentration in creative writing and advertising from Rider University. After jobs in the field of finance, she wanted to transition to an industry that focused on helping others be their best selves, and discovered IIN.

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MedWeb – How to lose weight with hypothyroidism?

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MedWeb

How to lose weight with hypothyroidism?

How to lose weight with hypothyroidism?

How to lose weight with hypothyroidism?

The best way to lose weight with hypothyroidism is to compensate for thyroid function. However, there are additional dietary rules for weight loss.

weight loss, hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a disease of the thyroid gland, in which the action of thyroid hormones on organs and tissues is reduced. This can happen:

• as a result of the inability of the gland to synthesize the right amount of hormones;
• in diseases of the pituitary and hypothalamus, when the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) decreases, which makes the thyroid gland work;
• when peripheral tissues lose sensitivity to thyroid hormones.

With hypothyroidism, there is a slowdown in all metabolic processes, including energy and fat metabolism, which leads to a slight increase in body weight (by 2-4 kg), weakness, drowsiness, apathy, unwillingness to move and work. Some increase in body weight is also explained by fluid retention in the body.

For weight loss in hypothyroidism, physical activity is important. With physical
work accelerates metabolism, the breakdown of fat reserves with the release of
energy. The greater the muscle mass of a person, the more actively
metabolic processes and faster weight loss.

How to quickly lose weight with hypothyroidism?

Unfortunately, it is not necessary to tune in to a rapid decrease in body weight against the background of hypothyroidism. It takes an average of 3-4 months to restore normal thyroid function. To do this, it is necessary to strictly observe the scheme of taking medications proposed by the endocrinologist and control the TSH and T4 values.

With adequate treatment, euthyroidism occurs within a few months – a state when tissues receive a sufficient amount of thyroid hormones and a gradual weight loss occurs.

Can you fast with hypothyroidism?

One of the most common ways to quickly lose weight is fasting. However, in the case of hypothyroidism, you can not starve. With a sharp restriction of food for several days, the body switches to an economical way of using energy. It seeks to store all the nutrients that enter the body in reserve. Metabolic slowdown is aggravated.

In addition, against the background of hypothyroidism, as a rule, digestion, absorption and assimilation of nutrients are disturbed, the body is deficient in vitamins and minerals. Diet restriction can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Significant weight gain for hypothyroidism is not typical and, as a rule,
can be associated with other hormonal (for example, the development of
insulin resistance), nutritional (features
nutrition) or hereditary reasons.

Diet and regimen for hypothyroidism

The rules for weight loss in hypothyroidism are practically the same as the principles of healthy weight loss under normal conditions. Meals should be frequent, in small portions, as eating speeds up metabolism.

In case of hypothyroidism, it is recommended to reduce the proportion of fats, especially of animal origin, and refuse to take easily digestible carbohydrates (sweets, muffins, sugar, jam, honey, confectionery, etc.). For the full synthesis of hormones, proteins are needed, so it is useful to enrich the diet with cottage cheese, lean meat and fish. Seafood contains a whole complex of minerals and vitamins that are useful for patients with hypothyroidism. They are also desirable to include in the weekly menu.

Expert: Galina Filippova, general practitioner, candidate of medical sciences
Author: Natalia Dolgopolova

The material uses photographs owned by shutterstock.com

How to lose weight with hypothyroidism: nutritionist Dr. Kovalkov’s recommendations for women with reduced thyroid function | Lose weight easily

When the function of the thyroid gland is impaired and it produces insufficient amounts of hormones, weight naturally increases. You can’t get rid of it with regular diets. The well-known nutritionist Dr. Kovalkov told about what and how to do it right.

How to lose weight with hypothyroidism: nutritionist Dr. Kovalkov’s recommendations for women with reduced thyroid function

According to statistics, most overweight women, especially after 50, are diagnosed with hypothyroidism – a disease in which the production of thyroid hormones is reduced. Even from an extra leaf of lettuce, weight can grow by leaps and bounds. That is, the weight depends not so much on when, what and how much you eat, but on the hormonal background, since it directly affects the metabolism.

What is metabolism in simple words

This is the rate of biochemical reactions that occur in our body per unit of time. The higher it is, the less body fat. With a decrease in the metabolic rate, weight, on the contrary, grows, and, most importantly, diets will not help here, because first you need to speed up the metabolism.

Calories that enter the body with food are converted into energy and spent on three main processes:

• 1. Maintenance of basic metabolism (body temperature, heart and lung function, intestinal peristalsis, etc.). This requires 80% of the energy entering the body.
• 2. Physical activity. It takes 10% of energy.
• 3. Digestion of food. The process requires another 10% energy.

And that’s what’s interesting. With hypothyroidism, the basal metabolic rate decreases. And if you start eating less, the body will spend less energy on digesting food. The cost of maintaining the main exchange will also be reduced. That is why, according to Dr. Kovalkov, reducing the diet for hypothyroidism is a non-working way to reduce weight.

If the disease is not treated, it will only progress. As a result, basal metabolism will decrease. And this will affect the figure in such a way that you will gain weight even from just one type of food. That is, when you refuse the usual portions of food or starvation, a plateau develops – the weight freezes at one mark and does not decrease by a single gram.

According to Dr. Kovalkov, the main danger of most diets is the development of hypothyroidism, which is the root cause of weight gain. In fact, most diets are evil. And evil, which has a clear explanation from a scientific point of view. In order not to harm your health and not provoke obesity, you need to compensate for the hormonal background before starting any changes in nutrition. And for this you need to visit an endocrinologist, and not self-medicate.

How to tell if you may have hypothyroidism:

• · Get ​​better even if you eat very little.
• · Feeling cold, wearing more clothes than before and still not feeling comfortable.
• Constant fatigue. You wake up broken in the morning. Sleep is shallow.
• · Increased carbohydrate cravings as the body needs fast energy.
• · Brittle, falling out hair.
• Loose and loose skin, especially in the neck and chin.
• Possible violations of the female cycle.
• Increased nervousness, irritability over trifles.
• · Excessive sweating even with the slightest exertion.

To confirm or refute the diagnosis of hypothyroidism, you need to take a blood test for thyroid hormones, and not focus only on clinical manifestations.

External signs of hypothyroidism (before and after treatment)

How to lose weight with hypothyroidism when thyroid function is reduced

People with hypothyroidism are often overweight, because a lack of thyroid hormones can slow down metabolism and reduce the rate of burning calories. In addition, reduced hormone levels can lead to impaired appetite and an increased desire to eat sweets.

So what do you do if you want to lose weight but have hypothyroidism?

How to lose weight with hypothyroidism

🔹 Watch your diet
Your diet should be rich in proteins, vegetables and fruits, but with a restriction of carbohydrates. It is also important to monitor the number of calories consumed so as not to exceed your daily allowance. In addition, it is worth limiting the consumption of carbohydrates and fats, especially fast carbohydrates, which quickly turn into glucose and can cause a strong hormonal surge. Fats also need to be controlled, as they are high in calories.

🔹 Monitor your blood glucose levels.
Hypothyroidism reduces insulin sensitivity, which can lead to diabetes mellitus, therefore it is necessary to monitor blood sugar levels and, if necessary, consult an endocrinologist.

🔹 Eat iodine
Iodine is necessary for the normal functioning of the thyroid gland. If your hypothyroidism is due to a lack of iodine, increasing your intake may help. You can get iodine from seafood. For example: seaweed, sea bass and shrimp, as well as from iodized salt.

🔹 Go in for sports or whatever physical activity is available to you, depending on your condition
Exercise helps speed up your metabolism and increase your calorie burn rate. We recommend engaging in aerobic exercise such as running, swimming, and cycling for at least 30 minutes a day, 5-6 days a week. However, before starting classes, you should always consult with your doctor.

🔹 Do not over-diet
Following strict diets can lead to low levels of thyroid hormones, which will only worsen your hypothyroidism and make it harder to lose weight. Instead, a healthy and balanced diet is recommended.

🔹 Avoid Stress
Stress tends to cause a deterioration in thyroid function, making it difficult to lose weight. Try learning how to relax, do yoga, meditate, or try other types of relaxation that you enjoy

🔹 Do not despair
Of course, losing weight with hypothyroidism is more difficult than without this disease, but this does not mean that it is impossible. It is important to be patient and persistent, follow the doctor’s advice and do not forget about a healthy lifestyle.

Prevention of hypothyroidism

According to Dr. Kovalkov, you should eat foods rich in iodine. And the best product for these purposes is seaweed.