Hypothyroidism is a hormonal condition characterized by low levels of thyroid hormone, causing a slow down in your metabolism. People with hypothyroidism are at risk of heart disease because low thyroid hormone levels causes an increase in LDL cholesterol levels, the cholesterol that clogs your arteries. Dr. Barry Sears, creator of the Zone Diet, says high blood cholesterol levels increases blood insulin levels. He recommends that people with hypothyroidism follow the Zone Diet to improve heart health and insulin levels.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, also known as underactive thyroid, is a common condition affecting both children and adults. It is most often seen in women older than age 50. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, constipation, a puffy face, elevated cholesterol levels or muscle aches and weakness. Early on, hypothyroidism causes very few problems, but over time, can lead to obesity, joint pain, infertility and heart disease. Treatment requires you take synthetic form of the thyroid hormone called levothyroxine. The medication restores your hormone levels and alleviates your symptoms.
Hyperinsulinemia and Hypothyroidism
Hyperinsulinemia is a condition in which your blood levels of insulin are higher than normal. Insulin is a hormone that helps carry sugar from your blood into your cells to supply its energy. Hyperinsulinemia is usually caused by a condition known as insulin resistance, which is characterized by cells that become resistant to the insulin. This prevents the sugar from entering and can cause high blood sugar and ultimately lead to diabetes. According to Sears, high blood insulin levels decrease thyroid hormone levels, contributing to hypothyroidism. .
Zone Diet
Weight gain is a result of genetics and hormonal mechanisms, according to the Zone Diet website. The Zone Diet aims to improve your hormone levels by helping you create balanced meals that aid in blood sugar and insulin control. This is accomplished by consuming meals that contain 400 calories, and provide 30 percent of its calories from protein, 30 percent of its calories from fat and 40 percent of its calories from carbohydrates. In addition, the Zone Diet recommends you make most of your carbohydrate choices low glycemic for better blood sugar control. Low glycemic carbs are foods that only cause a slight rise in blood sugar after you eat them, including foods such as fruit, beans and whole grain bread.
Considerations
While Sears recommends you follow his diet to help you manage your hypothyroidism, MayoClinic.com says there is no special diet or foods that will help improve hormone levels or cure your illness. It is important, however, that you follow a healthy diet to aid in weight control and limit your risk of heart disease. You should also avoid any foods with soy flour and walnuts when taking your thyroid medications.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Hypothyroidism; June 2010
- Dr.BarrySears.com; Hypothyroidism and Hyperinsulinemia; September 1998
- The Zone Diet: The zone 1-2-3 Program
- MayoClinic.com; Hypothyroidism Diet: Can Certain Foods Increase Thyroid Function?; Todd B. Nippoldt; November 2010
- MayoClinic.com; Hyperinsulinemia; Maria Collazo-Clavell; December 2009
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