6 Weight Loss Tips for Hypothyroidism

One of the major drawbacks of getting diagnosed with hypothyroidism is weight gain. The inactive thyroid gland doesn’t let your body burn fat smoothly. As the thyroid gland acts as a regulator of the metabolism process, losing weight with hypothyroidism is not easy. This condition makes you unable to carry out your physical activities with strength. Having hypothyroidism means you’ll mostly feel fatigued, weak, have joint pains, and low on energy. However, by controlling the condition in the correct way you still stand a chance to lose weight and that lean body.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland which is situated within the visceral part of the neck is unable to secrete thyroid hormone into the bloodstream. This condition affects your heart rate, and body temperature and mainly disrupts the metabolism process. The major cause behind the inactivity of the thyroid gland is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis which is an autoimmune disorder that leads to inflammation of the thyroid gland. Also know what is hyperthyroidism.

How does hypothyroidism affect your metabolism?

Hypothyroidism mainly affects all aspects of metabolism in the body. Hypothyroidism slows down the metabolism process which makes weight loss difficult. Losing weight with hypothyroidism is not easy as the thyroid gland is unable to release sufficient hormones called triiodothyronine and thyroxine that are required for smooth metabolic functions. However, getting metabolism to function well irrespective of hypothyroidism is possible with correct treatments, diet, and lifestyle changes.

Weight Loss Tips for Hypothyroidism

Taking conscious efforts to lose weight can help you to get the desired effects despite having an underactive thyroid gland. Inculcating lifestyle changes like following a hypothyroidism diet plan for weight loss and a few other easy remedies will get you to lose the extra kilos and achieve your dream body. Also know about weight loss plateau.

Eat More Anti-Inflammatory Foods- The symptoms of hypothyroidism like joint pain, depression, etc. can be cured by consuming anti-inflammatory foods like green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, fatty fish, nuts, fruits, etc. Having such foods will ease the immune system and eventually the metabolic functions which will enable you to burn fats without any disruptions. These foods are good sources of B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, selenium, iron, etc. which are necessary to curb hypothyroidism.  

Eliminate Sugar- A perfect hypothyroidism diet plan for weight loss will surely eliminate any foods that contain sugar. If you find it difficult to eliminate sugar, think of it as a bad influence on you. Intake of sugar is the primary cause of so many health disorders as it’s a key inflammatory agent. Also, avoid simple carbs as they break down into sugar or glucose. Say no to candy, soda, chips, cookies, etc. if you want to achieve results sooner. Added to eliminating sugar, including certain foods is also equally important.

Stay Hydrated- Hypothyroidism and weight loss are highly connected. Therefore, to ensure smooth metabolic functions, keeping your body hydrated is essential. A dehydrated body would always make you feel exhausted, tired, lethargic, etc. Having enough water will make you feel full and eventually reduce your appetite. Added to that hydration will reduce water retention and bloating and improve digestion which is vital for losing weight with hypothyroidism. You must fulfill your body’s water requirements for it to function well.

Follow A Diet for Hypothyroidism- Eliminating certain foods without including the necessary ones will not let you achieve your weight loss goals. An autoimmune paleo diet works best for losing weight with hypothyroidism. This diet eliminates all inflammatory foods and includes all anti-inflammatory foods. Include foods like lean proteins which include beef, pork, eggs, seafood, etc. non-dairy fermented foods like apple cider vinegar, and vegetables like kale, onions, garlic, etc. Avoid dairy products, beans, legumes, canola oils, coffee, alcohol, etc., for better results. Also know about the Indian diet chart for diabetic patient.

Take Thyroid Medication as Directed- To tackle hypothyroidism and weight loss, taking timely medicines is extremely important. As the thyroid gland is unable to secrete essential hormones, you need to fulfill those hormone requirements through the prescribed medicines. It is recommended to take the medicines on an empty stomach with plenty of water. The weight loss process is disrupted if your thyroid levels are not optimum even after consuming medicines. For such cases, you must alter your treatments.

Exercise Regularly- Along with following a diet, exercising daily is also necessary to reduce the effects of hypothyroidism. A few benefits of working out include reduced joint pain and depression, increased energy, muscle mass, insulin resistance, etc. However, if you are fatigued due to hypothyroidism then exercising won’t help you much. Go for workouts when you feel energized and your thyroid levels are controlled. Burning the extra calories will bring you one step closer to your goals. Know about Indian breakfast for diabetes .

Bottomline

You might feel miserable at first trying to change your lifestyle and lose weight with hypothyroidism. However, by following consistent natural remedies mentioned above you are all set to tackle this medical condition and achieve your weight loss goals. Weight loss can be challenging when you have hypothyroidism but with consistent actions and a never-giving-up spirit, you’ll see the positive impacts of your actions.

FAQs

Which exercise is best for the thyroid?

Metabolism-boosting exercises like brisk walking, aerobics, cycling, tennis, etc. are recommended to start with. However, once you have built the habit go for muscle strengthening exercises like weight lifting and heavy yard workouts. Starting with low-impact cardio will work best for you.

What is the best breakfast for hypothyroidism?

To tackle hypothyroidism, go for a breakfast that includes whole grains, meats, beans, etc. Have eggs and green vegetables along with fiber-rich fruits. Include smoothies, oats, nuts, salmon, etc. Ensure that you consume your breakfast at least 1-2 hours after taking your thyroid medicine.

Which fruit is best for the thyroid?

Some of the fruits that are best for hyperthyroidism are cherries, avocados, apples, pears, plums, citrus fruits, raspberries, etc. Include fiber-rich fruits in your diet as such fruits will reduce your appetite and fulfill your vitamins and nutrient requirements.

What drinks are good for hypothyroidism?

To start with having enough water to stay hydrated. Added to that you can have green tea, vegetable juice, chamomile tea, licorice tea, apple cider vinegar, medicinal mushroom tea, etc. will be super beneficial to reduce the impacts of hypothyroidism.