The best way to lose weight with hypothyroidism is to compensate for thyroid function. However, there are additional dietary guidelines for weight loss.
weight loss, hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a disease of the thyroid gland in which the effect of thyroid hormones on organs and tissues is reduced. This can happen:
- as a result of the inability of the gland to synthesize the required amount of hormones;
- with diseases of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus, when the production of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) decreases, which makes the thyroid gland work;
- with loss of peripheral tissue sensitivity to thyroid hormones.
In hypothyroidism , a slowdown in all metabolic processes, including the exchange of energy and fats, is observed, which leads to a slight increase in body weight (by 2-4 kg), weakness, drowsiness, apathy, unwillingness to move and work. Some increase in body weight is also explained by fluid retention in the body.
For weight loss with hypothyroidism, physical activity is important. During physical
work, the metabolism is accelerated, the breakdown of fat reserves with the release of energy. The greater the muscle mass of a person, the more active metabolic processes are and the faster the excess weight is lost.
How to quickly lose weight with hypothyroidism?
Unfortunately, it is not necessary to tune in to a rapid decrease in body weight against the background of hypothyroidism . It takes 3-4 months on average to restore normal thyroid function. For this, it is necessary to strictly observe the dosage regimen suggested by the endocrinologist and monitor the TSH, T4 values.
With adequate treatment, euthyroidism occurs within several months – a condition when the tissues receive a sufficient amount of thyroid hormones and a gradual weight loss occurs.
Is it possible to starve with hypothyroidism?
Fasting is one of the most common ways to lose weight quickly. However, in the case of hypothyroidism, you should not starve. With a sharp restriction of food for several days, the body switches to an economical way of using energy. He seeks to put all nutrients entering the body in reserve. The slowdown in metabolism is aggravated.
In addition, against the background of hypothyroidism, as a rule, digestion, absorption and assimilation of nutrients are impaired, the body is deficient in vitamins and minerals. Diet restriction can lead to vitamin and mineral deficiency.
Significant weight gain for hypothyroidism is not typical and, as a rule,
is associated with other hormonal (for example, the development of
insulin resistance), alimentary (
dietary habits) or hereditary reasons.
Diet and regimen for hypothyroidism
The rules for weight loss in hypothyroidism practically do not differ from the principles of healthy weight loss in normal conditions. Meals should be frequent, in small portions, as food intake speeds up the metabolism.
With hypothyroidism, it is recommended to reduce the proportion of fats, especially of animal origin, and refuse to take easily digestible carbohydrates (sweets, pastries, sugar, jam, honey, confectionery, etc.). Proteins are needed for the full synthesis of hormones , so it is useful to enrich the diet with cottage cheese, lean meat and fish. Seafood contains a whole range of minerals and vitamins that are beneficial for patients with hypothyroidism. It is also advisable to include them in the weekly menu.