Diets and weight loss programs always feel like uphill climbs, especially if you are fighting hypothyroidism. This disease impairs the thyroid gland and can lower your basal metabolic rate, or metabolism. The side effects of hypothyroidism -- fatigue and weight gain -- help to undermine dieting plans. Dieting will not fix your thyroid problem, but it may help you shed the excess pounds.
Step 1
Take your thyroid medication, if prescribed, on an empty stomach. The thyroid replacement hormones can interact with some foods. For example, fiber, soy flour and walnuts can decrease the absorption of thyroid hormones. However, this medication will help bring your thyroid levels back to normal, which may increase your metabolic rate and help you meet your weight loss goals.
Step 2
Buy fresh groceries and plan a diet that incorporates healthy food and exercise -- avoid fad diets, as any weight lost on these diets may be temporary. Pick a day to start your diet and set goals. Taking the time to mentally prepare yourself to start a healthy diet may help you in your long-term weight-loss goals.
Step 3
Incorporate exercise into your daily activities. Fatigue is common with hypothyroidism; combat this lack of energy with a brisk walk or swimming session. Chose an activity you enjoy and stick with it. Exercise will help you burn off the calories you consume throughout the day.
Step 4
Reduce your caloric intake. Increase the amount of raw vegetables and grains you consume and avoid processed foods, sugars and fats. Decreasing your daily calories by 500 a day may help you to lose as much as a pound a week. Cut up vegetables and fruits and place them in convenient resealable bags that you can grab for a snack. This way you won't be tempted to grab an unhealthy snack when you are hungry.
Tips and Warnings
- Get your thyroid levels checked routinely at the doctor's office.
