The thyroid is a tiny gland in the throat that affects many bodily functions, especially metabolism. There are two main types of thyroid dysfunction: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid is underactive and one of the most common symptoms is weight gain. Check out these 7 ways you can lose weight with hypothyroidism.
Other common symptoms of hypothyroidism include: brain fog, fatigue, muscle pain, dry skin, thinning hair, and increased sensitivity to cold. But arguably the best-known symptom of an underactive thyroid is unexplained weight gain and the inability to lose it.
A compromised metabolism can make weight management seem like an uphill battle, but there are a few things that can be done.
Tips for losing weight with hypothyroidism
Here are some ways to lose weight with an underactive thyroid.
1.Take thyroid medications
It is important to take your thyroid medicine. This will help keep the thyroid hormones in your body at optimal levels. Once thyroid levels are controlled, it will really help with weight management. Thyroid medication should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach (although some people have had success taking it in the evening).
2. Avoid refined sugar if you have an underactive thyroid
Refined sugar is bad for everyone. And unfortunately, it can also be very difficult to avoid as it is present in soft drinks, candy, fruit juices, etc. Sugar is actually worse for us than fat.
Fat has gotten a terrible reputation over the years, even though good fats (like those found in avocados and coconut oil) have several benefits for the body. Eating healthy fats can help hypothyroid sufferers.
Avoiding sugar can have a massive impact on your well-being. It is best to keep your sugar intake limited to natural sugar (fruits, vegetables, raw honey).
3. Exercise to lose weight with an underactive thyroid
Constant fatigue can make exercise seem impossible, but if you have the energy to do it, moderate exercise is one of the best ways to lose weight. „Moderate“ because overtraining can actually have a detrimental effect on people with hypothyroidism. Walking, yoga, Pilates, and some light weight training are beneficial.
4. Coconut oil
Coconut oil is pretty amazing. It can be used as a skin moisturizer (hypothyroidism often causes dry skin, so it is very helpful), as a cooking oil, and as a hair conditioner. The medium chain fatty acids present in coconut oil help the thyroid to function normally and therefore can aid in weight loss.
5. Healthy snacks
When you have an underactive thyroid, it is important to eat small meals throughout the day. Healthy snacks in the morning and afternoon can help control weight. Nuts and seeds are a great option. Walnuts contain selenium, a mineral vital for the thyroid. Seeds, like flax and chia, are great for fiber and omega 3s.
We can also make our own healthy bars and snacks, just with a quick Google search. There are several health food bloggers who have amazing and delicious recipes.
6. Take fish oil supplements if you are looking to lose weight with hypothyroidism
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which we must obtain from food. These can improve the function of an underactive thyroid. Omega 3 fatty acids are also present in spinach, chia seeds, and fatty fish (for example, salmon).
7. Try apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can also help deal with hypothyroidism and weight gain. Consuming ACV is also a great way to detoxify. It can regulate thyroid hormones and improves metabolism. However, keep in mind that vinegar can create a histamine response in some people (and if you’ve already known candida, it might be better to avoid stroke).
