Hypothyroidism and Weight-Loss
Hypothyroidism is an endocrine disease in which the thyroid gland produces insufficient thyroid hormone. It can produce a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, a decreased capacity to handle cold, reproductive issues, and weight gain.
Yes, even with hypothyroidism, weight loss is feasible, but it takes a suitable approach. The strategy entails a thorough examination of your hormones, including those not produced by your thyroid, as well as persistent adherence to a healthy diet.
Consider the following dietary suggestions to lose weight while treating hypothyroidism:
Foods to stay away from
- Caffeine, processed carbs, and a sugary diet
Low amounts of inflammation in your body might be triggered by such foods, resulting in oxidative stress.
Reduced or even complete elimination of these substances may help to relieve stress on an underactive thyroid and reduce inflammation.
- Foods containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and energy bars
Energy bars contain preservatives, additives, and chemicals that may disrupt the delicate neurohormonal balance that regulates homeostasis (the body’s internal environment).
- Cutting back on gluten-containing foods, such as wheat, rye, and oats may help lower antibody levels in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (where the body creates antibodies to assault the thyroid).
- Soy
Thyroid hormone production is known to be hampered by increased intake of soy in the form of milk, curd, or tofu. Small quantities consumed infrequently are ok.
- Cruciferous veggies are cruciferous vegetables.
Although high in nutrients (cabbage, broccoli, kale, etc.), these foods can interfere with thyroid hormone production on some level, particularly if ingested raw or in large quantities.
You can eat these vegetables after cooking them but in small amounts. Also avoid eating them within 3-4 hours of your thyroid medication, as they can interfere with the effect of the medication.
Foods to include
- Whole-grain-based carbohydrates and non-starchy vegetables
They provide energy and the feeling of fullness.
They do not trigger inflammation or autoimmune responses.
- Protein-rich foods
Includes fish, legumes, eggs, quinoa, nuts.
These help build your muscle mass and combat muscle weakness brought on by hypothyroidism.
- Healthy fat foods
Oily fish, flaxseeds, extra virgin olive oil, and avocados will help balance your lipid levels, which may run askew in the case of long-standing hypothyroidism.
- Consume enough nutrients
Having an inadequate supply of nutrients can worsen thyroid symptoms because the immune system may be compromised.
Three nutrients (selenium, zinc, and iodine) support your thyroid function, so ensure your diet plan includes enough selenium and zinc, which can come from nuts, fruits, and whole grains.
- Reintroduce healthy bacteria
Probiotics can help rebalance your gut microbiome.
An imbalanced gut microbiome (dysbiosis) is often touted as a reason for metabolic imbalances, including thyroid and polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD).
To lose weight, you should also start an exercise routine.
Additionally, strict adherence to an exercise regimen as well as healthy eating habits is required. However, don’t expect to lose a lot of weight in a short period of time.
Resistance training, such as lifting weights, bars, and dumbbells, can help people with hypothyroidism. These workouts aid in the development of muscle mass, the maintenance of bone mass, and the enhancement of metabolism.