Weight loss can be a challenge for anyone, but individuals with an underactive thyroid have it harder than most. The thyroid gland produces and regulates hormones that affect body functions like temperature, brain development and weight. When the thyroid fails to supply the correct amount of hormones, weight gain can ensue. Proper diagnosis and treatment, along with a healthy diet and exercise, is the key to staying healthy and avoiding excessive weight gain.
What is the Thyroid?
The thyroid is a small gland located just below your voice box that controls the production and release of hormones into your body. According to the National Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Information Service, these hormones regulate important functions like body temperature, metabolism, breathing, brain development, muscle strength, menstrual cycles, cholesterol levels and weight. When the thyroid gland is "underactive," it fails to produce enough hormones to maintain critical body functions and many important processes slow down as a result. An underactive thyroid is a condition called hypothyroidism.
Symptoms of Hypothyroidism
The thyroid gland is best known for its regulation of metabolism and body weight. Weight gain or an inability to lose weight despite exercise and a healthy diet are often symptoms of an underactive thyroid. The Mayo Clinic lists other common symptoms as fatigue, sensitivity to the cold, depression, pale skin, elevated cholesterol levels, constipation, muscle aches or weakness, pain or stiffness around joints or a hoarse voice. Diagnosis of an underactive thyroid can be made simply by measuring the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood. Hormone levels that fall below the normal range are consistent with hypothyroidism.
Cause and Treatment
The most common cause of hypothyroidism is an autoimmune disorder called Hashimoto's disease. As with all autoimmune disorders, Hashimoto's causes the immune system to produce antibodies that attack and destroy vital, healthy cells. Hypothyroidism results when these antibodies specifically attack the thyroid and interfere with hormone production. Women, especially those over 50, have a greater chance of developing this condition. Fortunately, once diagnosed, hypothyroidism can easily be managed with synthetic hormone supplements. A leading endocrinology website, Endocrineweb.com, acknowledges that once treatment has begun, you could see a reduction in symptoms in as little as two weeks.
Weight Loss and Hypothyroidism
The thyroid hormones are integral to the regulation of metabolism and body weight. Thus, any decrease in the supply or production of these hormones, as is the case with hypothyroidism, will make weight loss difficult. If you suspect you suffer from an underactive thyroid, your best course of action is to get diagnosed and treated. Until thyroid hormone levels are normalized, you will likely continue to struggle with weight loss. The good news, however, is that once treatment is begun, your weight should return to normal very quickly. Hormone levels and metabolism should be stabilized in one to two months and weight gain should cease, assuming regular exercise and a healthy diet are maintained.
Staying Healthy
A successful weight loss routine involves both an active lifestyle and a healthy nutrition plan. Individuals suffering from hypothyroidism can minimize the side effects of weight gain, elevated cholesterol levels and loss of muscle strength by maintaining a regular exercise schedule. Along with a healthy diet, regular exercise will ensure you stay healthy and avoid chronic diseases. Once your thyroid function is restored, these healthy habits will continue to help you lose weight and stay fit for years to come.
