Hypothyroid Weight Loss Plan

Hypothyroidism affects approximately five in 100 Americans, most of whom are women. This thyroid disorder occurs when the gland's functioning slows down, which disrupts certain other functions within the body, such as metabolism. Those suffering from hypothyroidism are likely to gain weight due to the slowing of the metabolism. However, once the thyroid gland is under control, there are ways to lose such weight in a healthy way.

Thyroid Control

Metabolism in the body is regulated by the thyroid gland. Unfortunately, hypothyroidism sufferers do not detect that there is an initial problem with the thyroid gland until after they have gained weight as a result of metabolic dysfunction. Once diagnosed by a doctor, proper treatment may take some time, perhaps months. An endocrinologist will test the blood for TSH levels and prescribe thyroid medication, such as Synthroid. Regular blood tests will be given to determine whether or not the right amount of medication is present in the body.

Medication should be taken as directed; otherwise it will not work properly. For example, the common Synthroid medication has to be taken every morning on an empty stomach in order to work efficiently.

Only after assuring that a patient is getting the right amount of thyroid medication will weight loss be feasible. An individual under treatment will be able to detect future thyroid problems if they start to gain weight again after losing it.

Losing Weight

According to "Thyroid and Weight," individuals with hypothyroidism usually gain between five and 10 pounds, most of which is water weight. Losing this weight does not happen immediately upon treatment. Unfortunately, as with any prior weight gain, losing the extra pounds takes time and effort.

Cutting calories does not equal successful weight loss with hypothyroid individuals, unless they had consumed an excessive amount prior to treatment. The primary way to lose weight gained through hypothyroidism is through regular exercise. According to vaxa.com, an individual under treatment for hypothyroidism should exercise for 60 minutes every day in order to lose weight. Also, strength training will aid in building muscles and revving up the metabolism, which will further enhance weight loss.

A person who has hypothyroidism should also be aware of the types of foods they consume. Foods that are rich in vitamin A, such as carrots, help support the thyroid gland. Iodine-rich foods are also vital to thyroid function. Iodine can be found in eggs, seafood and iodized salt.

There are also certain foods to avoid while under thyroid treatment, such as caffeine and alcohol, as they can further disrupt the body's natural metabolic flow.