Last Updated on August 1, 2022 by Dr. Neeraj Gujar
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Hypothyroidism: 6 Effective Weight Loss Tips for People Suffering from Thyroid
People with hypothyroidism (also known as underactive thyroid) struggle to lose weight. It is not easy, but it is possible. Although you may need to work harder than someone with normal thyroid function, there are steps you can follow to help you get started on your weight loss journey.
Know The Thyroid First
The thyroid is part of the Endocrine System and is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that is located at the lower neck. The endocrine systems are composed of organs and glands that release hormones into the bloodstream. They also signal for them to travel to other parts of the body. In the way it regulates certain bodily functions, the endocrine systems are similar to the nervous. However, the endocrine uses hormones as chemical transmitters instead of nerves and neurotransmitters.
The endocrine systems regulate many bodily functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. The thyroid is the gland that controls your metabolism, working to produce hormones such as thyroxine or triiodothyronine (also known as T4 or T3). They are collectively known as the thyroid hormones (TH).
Also Read: Thyroid Panel Test– The Purpose And What Diseases Does It Detect
Hypothyroidism
If your thyroid is functioning normally, it produces the correct amount of hormones and your metabolism works normally. However, your body won’t get the hormones it needs to maintain a normal metabolism if your thyroid isn’t working properly. Hypothyroidism is when your thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
Sometimes, diet and exercise can restore your thyroid to its peak performance. However, medications may be necessary to regulate hormone production. Thyroid dysfunction can only be diagnosed by a doctor. Your doctor should also manage any medications or supplements that affect thyroid hormones.
Signs And Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your metabolism slows down. This can often lead to weight gain. Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain that is not explained by other factors.
- Tender or swollen neck – Pay attention to any tenderness or swelling around your larynx, which is the small knot in your throat that moves upward and downward when you swallow. You should also bring up any unusual ear, jaw, or swallowing pains, as well as difficulty swallowing and a hoarse, raspy vocalization.
- Fatigue and sleep problems – Hypothyroidism can cause you to feel tired even after a good night’s rest, take naps longer than usual, and make it difficult to get to sleep.
- Stiff joints and cramps in the muscles – Research has also shown that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is linked to thyroid disorders. RA can cause painful swelling of your joints.
- Depression & anxiety – People with undiagnosed or untreated hypothyroidism are at risk of depression and anxiety. Hypothyroidism can lead to depression, anxiety, and decreased concentration. The thyroid is responsible for brain function. Hypothyroidism is characterized by a low thyroid function that causes brain fog and irritation.
- Dry skin – Low THC affects rapidly growing cells such as hair and skin. Low TH can cause dry and flaky skin by interfering with the thyroid’s growth signals.
- Sensitivity to cold – This is a condition that lowers the metabolism and can result in a drop in your core body temperature. This can cause a feeling of being cold, especially on the hands and feet.
Consult your doctor immediately if you suspect you might be suffering from hypothyroidism.
Also Read: Everything About A Blood Test
Weight Loss With Hypothyroidism
It can be difficult for hypothyroid patients to lose weight, but it is possible. While controlling portion sizes and exercising regularly are great advice for everyone, those with hypothyroidism should also be aware of these six tips to help them lose weight.
1.Get enough sleep.
Everyone should make good sleep habits a priority, but hypothyroidism sufferers especially. According to the National Sleep Foundation, adults should get 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. People with severe thyroid disease can experience fatigue that can be debilitating and affect their daily lives.
You may consult your doctor if you are currently taking medication for hypothyroidism but still feel fatigued.
2.Keep hydrated
If you feel the need for water, likely, you have not been drinking enough. You can also be dehydrated by exercising or spending time in the sun. However, a glass of water is enough to satiate this level of dehydration. Hypothyroidism can cause severe dehydration and may worsen other symptoms, such as dry skin.
The human body is 60% water. It is important to maintain and increase your daily fluid intake (recommended 11.5 cups for women, 15.5 cups per day for men) to stay hydrated. This is more than the 8 cups recommended for women and men. These easy ways to make drinking water more enjoyable and flavorful are for you if you have trouble getting enough.
3.Reduce the amount of food you eat and eat more often
Hypothyroidism can cause your body to store fat rather than burn it for energy. You can balance your metabolism by changing the three main meals per day to smaller, more frequent meals. Your weight loss efforts can be hindered by eating later in the day when your metabolism is naturally slower.
A food journal or food diary can help you keep track of what you eat and when. You can look back at what you ate when you feel unwell by keeping a food diary. You can work with a registered nutritionist to help you make your smaller meals as effective as possible.
4.Keep it simple
Thyroid disease sufferers can follow a variety of diets, but the best advice is to eat whole foods. While doctors may recommend that people with autoimmune conditions, including autoimmune thyroid disease, avoid gluten, it is best to speak to your doctor first.
It is a good idea to focus on lean proteins, vegetables, and anti-inflammatory ingredients. These foods include:
- Chicken
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Eggs
- Green tea
- Seafood with omega-3
5.Stay active
Regular exercise is essential and helps to burn calories. However, for those with hypothyroidism, it can be hard to keep up a routine. It may be worth looking for other ways to keep active than going to the gym. You can still keep your heart rate up by swimming, biking, yoga, and hiking.
6.Take a look at supplements
Many supplements can be used to boost your thyroid function, or at least reduce the side effects of an underactive thyroid. Before you start any new or modified supplement regimen, please consult your healthcare provider.
- Selenium – Found in meat proteins and fish, selenium has been shown to reduce inflammation markers that are related to hypothyroidism.
- Iodine – Iodine is vital to a healthy lifestyle
- Glutathione – A 2018 study found that antioxidant glutathione can help fight inflammation and aid in weight loss. Avocados, spinach, and asparagus are all good sources of glutathione.
- Tyrosine – Tyrosine is an essential amino acid that you should include if you have low thyroid levels. Wheat, peanuts, and pumpkin seeds are good sources of tyrosine, as well as fish, eggs, bananas, and cheese.
Curcumin – This is the primary component of turmeric. It fights inflammation and promotes a healthy body.
Also Read: Fasting Before Sugar (FBS Test)
Final Takeaway
It’s difficult to lose weight when you have hypothyroidism. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to maintain your health. Knowing your body best will help you make the right decisions for your health. Keep a tab on your overall health with complete health checkups regularly. This will help and motivate you to do better to tackle hypothyroidism.
