Losing weight with hypothyroidism can be difficult if not impossible without the proper treatment, diet and exercise. The thyroid gland produces hormones in the body to regulate metabolism, or energy output. If you are suffering from hypothyroidism, your thyroid gland will not produce enough hormones and your metabolism will slow as a result. Losing weight will be extremely difficult with a slow metabolism and weight gain is likely. Other common symptoms of hypothyroidism include depression, being overly sensitive to cold temperatures, pallid skin, dry nails and hair, and constipation. Losing weight with hypothyroidism is possible if one receives proper treatment, including hormone replacement therapy, close monitoring of one’s diet, and proper exercise.
The first requirement that will assist one losing weight with hypothyroidism is to begin hormone replacement therapy. The most commonly prescribed therapy is a form of synthetic hormone known as levothyroxine. It will take time for your body to adjust and you should be sure to discuss with your doctor any side effects you are experiencing, as they may be indicative that the dosage needs adjusting. If the dose is too high, for example, you may experience tremors, heart palpitations, or anxiety. Your metabolism will only regulate with consistent treatment and once you found the correct dosage, you will eventually be ready to start losing weight with hypothyroidism.
The second requirement that will make losing weight with hypothyroidism possible is to monitor your caloric intake and eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet. Additionally, avoid eating or ingesting substances that will adversely affect the hormone treatment. People suffering from hypothyroidism should eat a mostly plant-based diet consisting mainly of a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Animal protein and animal products, such as dairy and eggs, should represent only a small portion of your diet. Patients should also avoid taking vitamin and mineral supplements as they may interfere with the hormone treatment. Instead of taking vitamin supplements, patients should strive to get all the nutrients they need from their diet.
Finally, it will take regular exercise to begin losing weight with hypothyroidism. Along with hormone replacement therapy and a sensible diet, exercise will help to raise your metabolism along with burning calories and building muscle. Patients should get a minimum of thirty minutes cardiovascular exercise per day combined with two sessions of strength training per week. Cardiovascular exercise will get your heart rate going and burn calories. Strength training will build lean muscle mass, which burns calories even when your body is resting. Regular cardiovascular exercise combined with strength training will tone your body and burn excess fat.
Losing weight with hypothyroidism is possible if a person begins hormone replacement therapy, watches their diet, and engages in regular cardiovascular and strength training exercise. A doctor should closely monitor your progress and should be updated and informed of any side effects you are experiencing. Although it may not be easy, if you follow these guidelines you will discover that it is possible for you to be losing weight with hypothyroidism.
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