How To Start Metabolism When The Thyroid Is Not Working?

When the thyroid gland stops working due to age, illness or surgical removal, it ceases to produce thyroid hormone, a condition known as hypothyroidism. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, dry skin and unexplained weight gain. Medication is generally administered to replace the absent thyroid hormone; however, it may take several months to find the dosage that is right for you. In the meantime, you can take steps on your own to start up your sluggish metabolism and begin to lose weight.

Step 1

Engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. According to the Mayo Clinic, incorporating exercise into your daily routine is the first step in increasing the number of calories your body burns. Once you become more physically fit, set your fitness goals higher and increase the duration, intensity or both. If you haven't exercised in awhile, start with brisk walking and increase the pace to a light jog after a few weeks, to keep your metabolism burning fat.

Step 2

Perform at least 30 minutes of strength or resistance training exercises three days a week. The Mayo Clinic explains that lean muscle tissue has the ability to burn more fat than other kinds of tissue. As a result, building more lean muscle mass increases your metabolic rate, even at rest. You can perform strength or resistance training exercises at your local gym, university or invest in a set of small weights or resistance bands and exercise your muscles at home.

Step 3

Drink more caffeinated beverages, including diet carbonated beverages, tea and coffee. A 1980 study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" found that both fat oxidation and metabolism increased with the administration of caffeine. If you are sensitive to the effects of stimulants, this technique is not recommended; however, if you are able to drink caffeinated beverages, increasing the amount you drink may help boost your metabolism. Keep in mind that caffeinated beverages tend to have a diuretic effect and therefore should not be included in your daily intake of fluids.

Step 4

Eat six small meals a day, rather than three large ones. According to Consumer Affairs, eating several smaller meals each day maintains your metabolism at an elevated rate. This is due to the fact that metabolism is necessary to process calories and you are providing a nearly continuous supply. Never skip breakfast either, because this gets your metabolism running in the morning, helping you burn more calories throughout the day.

Step 5

Replace highly processed, high sugar and high-fat foods in your diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grain products and lean meat and dairy. Consumer Affairs explains that nutrient dense, unprocessed foods contain generous amounts of fiber, which helps aid digestion and metabolism. Added fiber in your diet also helps to decrease the number of calories you eat overall, because fiber keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Be sure to drink adequate amounts of water when eating a high fiber diet, because fiber increases the volume in the digestive tract by absorbing water.