This is because the thyroid hormonestriiodothyronine(T3) andthyroxine(T4) are responsible for digestion and metabolism.
The less T3 and T4 you have, the less able your body is to burn calories for fuel.
Weight gain is the result.
Illustration by Paige McLaughlin for Verywell Health
Choose High-Quality Proteins
Diets low in protein can inhibit thyroid function.
This can contribute to an underactive thyroid.
Making sure you get enough protein can help combat hypothyroidism.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Protein can also help increase your metabolism and reduce hunger.
This means good quality protein can help you burn calories and reduce the desire to overeat.
On the other hand, healthy fats can be an important part of your diet if you have hypothyroidism.
They may also help control the hormones that make you feel hungry.
These foods also contain important nutrients.
Brazil nuts, in particular, are high inselenium, which is essential for healthy thyroid function.
Simple carbohydrates contribute many calories to your diet yet offer few nutrients.
Be sure to consume them in moderation.
However, be careful not to eat large amounts.
Soyis a special concern.
This can pose a significant problem for someone following a strict vegetarian orvegan dietwho relies on soy for protein.
Drinking enough water keeps your metabolism working efficiently.
It can also help reduce your appetite, eliminate water retention and bloating, and improve elimination and digestion.
Around 20% of the fluid we take in comes from the foods we eat.
A healthcare provider or a nutritionist can help determine what’s best for you.
Eating too few calories is not a solution and may end upstalling weight loss.
This is because your body goes into starvation mode and starts consuming muscle for energy instead of fat.
Eating too few calories also deprives you of the nutrients you oughta stay healthy.
Studies suggest moderate- to high-intensity aerobic exercise can suppress yourappetiteby balancing appetite-regulating hormones.
(You could also do 45 to 60 minutes a day, three days a week.)
Aim to perform muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week.
If you have not exercised in a long time, consider starting with 10-minute walks twice a week.
Over time, you’re able to increase your pace and duration.
Numerous studies link sleep deprivation to a slowed metabolism and obesity.
Not getting enough sleep may make you more vulnerable to developing heart disease ordiabetes.
Oftentimes, low T3 levels translate to higher weight gain.
Time For a Medication Change?
Never stop taking a medication without your healthcare provider’s input.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe atype 2 diabetesdrug likemetforminfor chronically elevated levels.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Summary
Hypothyroidism slows your metabolism and affects your body in other ways that can hamper weight loss.
Other hormones that influence weight and appetite may be affected as well.
If you’re having trouble losing weight, ask your healthcare provider about testing your thyroid hormone levels.
They can help determine if you need medication or a change in dosage.
Diet drugs may pose special problems for people with hypothyroidism because of drug interactions.
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