How to Lose Weight with Hypothyroidism

If you’re dealing with a thyroid disease, losing weight can be a challenge. The reason behind this struggle lies in your thyroid gland, which might not produce sufficient thyroid hormones, leading to an endocrine disorder.

Reproductive issues, fatigue, reduced tolerance, and unwanted weight gain are common symptoms that people with hypothyroidism struggle with as it can significantly slow down your metabolism —even if you maintain an excellent exercise routine and follow a well-balanced, healthy diet.

However, there is hope for weight loss despite thyroid issues, as lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, stress management, regular workouts, and mindful eating habits can all contribute to achieving your goals.

How to speed up your thyroid to lose weight

The thyroid plays a crucial role as a dominant organ, responsible for regulating the production of hormones that balance metabolism. So, it’s quite common to associate thyroid activities with weight fluctuations, both loss and gain.

It’s important to recognize that weight gain typically stems from a combination of factors like an unhealthy diet and a sedentary lifestyle. Understanding the root cause of your weight challenges can help you take control of the situation and identify any potential issues with your thyroid.

Now, let’s get to know more about how to boost your thyroid function and promote weight loss:

1) Select high-quality proteins

Limiting protein intake in your diet can harm thyroid function, potentially leading to an underactive thyroid. So, it is essential to ensure that you consume enough protein to effectively combat hypothyroidism. Protein plays a vital role in supporting your metabolism and can also help curb hunger.

Additionally, a sufficient protein intake can aid in calorie burning and help regulate the urge to overeat. Make sure to include excellent sources of protein (lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans and legumes) in your diet to reap these benefits.

2) Have a balanced diet

Maintaining a nutritious and well-balanced diet is crucial. Incorporate a variety of whole foods into your meals, including healthy fats, fruits, lean proteins, and vegetables.

It’s important to strike a balance and aim for a calorie deficit to support weight loss goals, but be cautious of extreme calorie restriction, as it could further slow down your metabolism.

Increasing your fiber intake can be beneficial as it helps you feel fuller for longer, aiding in appetite control. Add more of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and leafy greens to your diet.

To aid in losing weight with thyroid issues, consider including fermented goods like apple cider vinegar and kombucha too.

3) Do portion control 

It would be best if you were mindful of various portion sizes to manage calorie intake. Ensure that you use smaller plates, measure your food, and also make sure you pay attention to hunger and fullness cues.

However, working closely with your doctor or an endocrinologist specializing in thyroid disorders is vital. Be sure they will help you determine the right treatment plan and adjust your medication dosage when required. 

4)Avoid processed foods and refined sugars 

Opting for unprocessed foods is highly recommended to support your weight management efforts, as processed foods often contain fewer nutrients, unhealthy fats, and added sugars and salts.

5) Exercise regularly and manage stress

To fully support your weight loss, regular physical activity is essential. Engaging in activities you enjoy and can manage, such as cycling, jogging, and swimming, can effectively contribute to managing your weight.

Exercise plays a crucial role in not only boosting your metabolism but also in building muscle. Incorporating strength training into your routine is a key component of achieving your weight loss goals and improving overall health.

Thyroid diets for weight loss

A thyroid diet should be provided by a healthcare professional according to your hormone levels. But generally, focusing on meals that are rich in selenium and iodine, such as meat, nuts, seeds, and eggs is advised.  Fiber-rich foods like leafy greens and berries also help you feel fuller, support digestion and flush out harmful toxins.

Keep in mind that it’s advisable to avoid gluten, caffeine, alcohol, and millet, as they may interfere with thyroid function and potentially cause inflammation.

By making these dietary adjustments and being mindful of the foods you consume, you can improve your weight loss journey and support your overall thyroid health.

To sum up

Losing weight with hypothyroidism requires persistence and patience, as it may take time to see significant results. It’s crucial to provide personalized advice and carefully monitor your progress throughout the journey.