The thyroid gland controls the body's metabolism. When not working properly, it can cause significant health problems. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which your body produces too much thyroid hormone; in hypothyroidism, the body does not make enough hormone. Both thyroid diseases require treatment. However, with hypothyroidism you will find it more challenging to lose weight.
Step 1
Visit your doctor for an initial checkup and determine if you have an overactive or underactive thyroid. Your doctor will perform a physical exam to make an accurate diagnosis. He may examine your neck to see if your thyroid is enlarged or nodules are present. He also may order a thyroid function test to determine if your levels of T4 (thyroxine) and T3 (triiodothyronine) hormone are normal. A thyroid scan or ultrasound will determine if there are any goiters or abnormalities on or around your thyroid. These tests will be analyzed to determine the best treatment plan for your condition. Once your thyroid is regulated, you should see better weight loss results.
Step 2
Take thyroid medications properly. If diagnosed with an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, a synthetic hormone replacement may be prescribed, according to the Mayo Clinic. This oral medication helps your thyroid work better and makes it easier to lose weight when following a healthy diet. Medications to treat hyperthyroidism include propylthioracil and methimazole. These medications can cause nausea and stomach upset, which can lead to incidental weight loss.
Step 3
Eat healthy every day. Consume foods that help regulate metabolism such as fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy and protein. Eat regularly throughout the day and fill up on fruits and vegetables in place of high-calorie, processed snacks.
Step 4
Exercise regularly. Get 30 minutes of exercise daily, five days a week, such as swimming, jogging, hiking and cycling. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, in addition to aerobic exercise, which raises the heart rate, strength training also improves overall metabolic rate, which can assist in regulating your thyroid. Exercise improves overall health and aids in weight loss.
Step 5
Maintain long-term health. Visit your doctor as recommended. She will likely follow your thyroid levels and adjust medication and treatment as necessary, especially if you have reached a plateau in your weight loss. If you develop a goiter caused by thyroid disease, it may have to be removed. A goiter is found on the thyroid in the neck and can make swallowing difficult.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid crash diets or starvation diets. They can cause fluctuations in your thyroid hormone levels, making your thyroid work harder.
- Have you thyroid levels checked if you have symptoms such as a racing heart, dizziness, rapid weight loss or nervousness. Your medication may have to be adjusted.
References
- The Hormone Foundation: Thyroid Disorders Overview
- KidsHealth.org: Thyroid Disease
- MayoClinic.com; Hypothyroidism, Treatment and Drugs; Mayo Clinic Staff; June 12, 2010
- USDA: Food Groups
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Goiter Treatment
- FDA; Thyroid Medications; Mary Parks, M.D.; January 2, 2008
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