How to stop gaining weight with hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones, leading to various symptoms including weight gain. This can be frustrating and overwhelming for those struggling with hypothyroidism. However, there are strategies that you can implement to prevent further weight gain.

Understanding Hypothyroidism

Before we delve into ways of preventing weight gain with hypothyroidism, let’s look at what it entails.

What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones — thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate metabolism in every cell throughout your body. When they’re not produced adequately, some or all of these processes slow down, causing fatigue, weakness and several other symptoms.

The Link Between Hypothalamus And Thyroids

The hypothalamus signals the pituitary gland about the amount of TSH or thyroid-stimulating hormone required by our body. The pituitary gland sends this information as well as info on different levels of thyroid hormone in blood back along our bloodstream in turn affecting its production level [1].

Strategies for Preventing Weight Gain with Hypothyroidism

When you have an underactive thyroid, maintaining a healthy weight may seem impossible – but hang on! Here are some excellent tips that will help prevent unnecessary pounds from sneaking up:

Tip #1: Eat Foods Rich In Iodine

Insufficient amounts of iodine intake causes goiter( enlargement of Thyroids due to deficiency )which indirectly affects proper behavior such as concentration issues making us reach out for more sugar laden foods thus creating a downward spiral for people trying t get their weights under control]. Hence adding adequate doses like seaweed,fish helps maintain optimal balance and keeps the appetite regulated.

Tip #2: Reduce Sugar Intake

Sugars come in disguises, make sure to read your fortified cereals, granola bars,yogurts for added sugars.You may find sugar everywhere.But refined sugars are insidious with regards to weight control since they pack on calories – which add up quickly without adding any nutritional value. They cause insulin spikes and crashes leading you into a vicious cycle of frequent snacking.Not good. Therefore be choosy .

Tip #3: Avoid Processed Foods

All hail our ancestors who discovered fire but processed foods-they continue to show distaste [sic].Processed convenience meals popular people looking for quick fixes always seem delicious but these calorically dense in turn making it difficult for hypothyroid patients manage their weights.By steering clear from them,a huge difference can be made.

Tip #4: Increase Protein Consumption

Protein is crucial not just because it boosts metabolism,something very critical while struggling with this disease,but also helps you feel full longer.Reducing cravings helping curb anything that makes you gain weight Secondly higher intake has been shown to help burn more calories during digestion than carbs/fats!

Tip#5 : Unsaturated Fats Are Your Friend

Yes ! You heard me right unsaturated fats like Omega-3 fatty acids also play key role.Here’s how?Reducing inflammation in body along with shrinking fat cells It’s essential o utilize sources like fish ,avocado,nuts seeds creating satiety.Load up!!

Conclusion

Achieving an ideal weight may pose a challenge for individuals struggling hyperthyroidism. However, you can incorporate specific measures including iodine-rich foods such as seafood and adapting towards a balanced diet filled up with proteins/MUFAs,enough physical activity alongside medication.This change does take time – make adjustments at consistent intervals.Sooner or later,current balance may get replaced but for the better,a win-win situation indeed![2]

All the best!

References :
  1. “Hypothalamus: The thermostat of our body [Internet]” Knowledge Tank. 2017 November 02 [cited on April 11,2021]. Available from: https://www.knowledgetank.in/hypothalamus-the-thermostat-of-our-body/.

  2. Subclinical hypothyroidism: Controversies to consensus [Internet] World Journal of Endocrine Surgery.” Research Gate.2008 November23[ Cited on April12,2021].Available from:https://www.researchgate.net/publication/23405867_Subclinical_hypothyroidism_Controversies_to_consensus

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