Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormone, states MayoClinic.com. Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain, leading to obesity over time. Obesity can subsequently lead to an increased risk in heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea and certain types of cancers. Therefore, you should not hesitate to visit your doctor to discuss treatments for hypothyroidism, which most likely will result in thyroid hormone replacement therapy with levothyroxine. Taking levothyroxine as directed will lead to weight loss.
Step 1
Work with your doctor to be sure that levothyroxine therapy is appropriate to treat weight gain secondary to hypothyroidism. Discuss with your doctor the possible side effects including headache, sleep problems, restlessness, nervousness, menstrual changes and fever, states Drugs.com. Ask your doctor how much levothyroxine you should take per day. Side effects are typically mild and should not effect your ability to exercise. If side effects become moderate to severe and limit the ability for quality exercise, you should be sure to let your doctor know.
Step 2
Take levothyroxine with 8 ounces of water, recommends Drugs.com. You should take the tablet on an empty stomach before eating your morning breakfast. It may take many weeks for you to begin losing weight after beginning levothyroxine therapy. Keep in mind that levothyroxine is not a cure for being overweight, but it will supplement a healthy diet and exercise program. You must continue to be calorie conscious.
Step 3
Return to your follow-up appointments to make sure you are taking the correct dose of levothyroxine. Your doctor may increase or decrease your dose depending on your clinical symptoms and blood tests. Furthermore, your physician may check routine blood tests to make sure levothyroxine is not negatively affecting your liver or kidneys.
Step 4
Weigh yourself daily to monitor your weight-loss progress. Weigh yourself at the same time each morning and record your weight in a journal for tracking purposes. Normal weight loss is approximately one to two pounds per week.
