The thyroid is a small gland at the front of the neck, which produces thyroid hormones used in metabolism. When a person has hyperthyroidism, the thyroid produces too much of the hormone, so the metabolism is too fast. Yet with hypothyroidism, the thyroid doesn't produce enough hormone, which can lead to symptoms like fatigue, low immune system function, constipation and weight gain. If you're trying to diet for weight loss, having thyroid problems can add an extra challenge.
Step 1
Avoid walnuts and soy products like soy milk and tofu if you have hypothyroidism. This is especially important if you take medication to control your thyroid gland. These foods can slow down the thyroid by inhibiting the function of thyroid medications. Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower can also slow down the metabolism, so they should be avoided by people with hypothyroidism. Yet if you have hyperthyroidism and want to slow the gland down, choose these foods regularly.
Step 2
Purchase a comfortable pair of exercise shoes so that you're ready to walk more often throughout the day. The more that you exercise, the more calories you'll burn. Exercising also gets the blood flowing and increases energy levels, which can help those with hypothyroidism. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day, whether it be walking, jogging, or aerobics.
Step 3
Consume whole grains like brown rice, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta and spelt if you want to diet to lose weight. These complex carbohydrates contain more fiber and are more filling than refined grain products like white bread and regular pasta. Whole grains contain B vitamins and iron, nutrients that can speed up the metabolism and boost your energy levels.
Step 4
Choose the right supplements to take daily. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, can be taken by a person with either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, as it reduces inflammation in the body and boosts the immune system. People with hypothyroidism can benefit from taking 500mg of L-tyrosine two to three times a day, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, since the amino acid helps the thyroid to produce more of its own thyroid hormone naturally.
Things You'll Need
- Comfortable shoes for exercising
- Whole grains
- Fish Oil
- L-tyrosine
