Hypothyroidism is a condition in which your thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. This slows down your metabolism, causing unexplained weight gain sometimes accompanied by a loss of appetite. Other symptoms include depression, sore joints and muscles, dry and brittle hair and nails, fatigue and weakness. Most commonly occurring in women older than 50, hypothyroidism can occur in people as young as infancy. Your risk for developing hypothyroidism increases as you age.
Treatment
Hypothyroidism is typically treated with drug therapy in the form of synthetic thyroid. Some diets also claim to reduce symptoms of hypothyroidism and increase production of your thyroid gland. Samples of these diets include the Zone Diet, the Thyroid Diet and the Inside Out Diet. The Thyroid Diet was created by Mary Shomon and offers an alternative method of coping with the weight gain associated with hypothyroidism. The Inside Out diet focuses on detoxifying your body through diet. If you've been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, you should discuss any diet plans with your doctor.
Diet
Claims that dietary choices will improve function of your thyroid gland remain unproven. Some foods will, however, impair the value of thyroid medications. Fiber, for example, keeps your body from absorbing synthetic hormones. If you are taking thyroid medication, you should avoid walnuts, iron supplements, calcium supplements and soy flour. Medications for other diseases may also affect the usefulness of your hypothyroid medications. Be sure to tell your physician of all medications you are currently taking.
Weight Gain
One of the symptoms of hypothyroidism is weight gain. Extreme diets may further harm your already slowed metabolism. If you need to lose weight, do so sensibly. Maintain a well-balanced diet that includes foods from all major food groups. Increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, and lower your consumption of fats and refined carbohydrates. Instead of red meat, opt for fish, lean poultry or vegetable protein such as legumes. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers online tools to help you create a balanced weight-loss diet based on your age, gender, level of physical activity, weight loss goals and special needs. Drug therapy treatment of hypothyroidism may help your weight concerns, but eating a healthy, well-balanced diet is good for everyone and will do you no harm.
Considerations
Hypothyroidism can seriously affect the quality of your life. Consult a physician if you suspect you may suffer from hypothyroidism. Your physician will check your physical symptoms and will draw blood for testing. It is likely that you will be given drug therapy and not dietary recommendations. If you need thyroid replacement medication, you will likely take the hormone for the rest of your life. You should visit your doctor regularly because your drug therapy needs may change over time.
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