Thyroid and Weight Gain

It is a common fact, that in diagnosis and treatment of an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism, the end result is an underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism. The need to take any type of thyroid medication indicates thyroid hypoactivity resulting in weight gain.

This is a natural occurrence, particularly if a person has been diagnosed with a hyperactive thyroid. Of course, the goal of treatment is to slow down this activity or eradicate it altogether. In hyperthyroidism, there is an increase in metabolism, characterized by untended weight loss, among other symptoms. No matter what the person eats or how much, the continued weight loss can be cause for concern.

Underactive thyroid, by contrast, is the slowing down of the metabolism, resulting in increase of weight gain. Therefore, the person must then make the necessary life changes to prevent weight gain if at all possible. Additionally, an exercise regimen must be adopted, as well as a diet plan to keep this weight gain in check.

Hyperthyroidism is caused by an over production of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4. These hormones are manufactured and secreted by the thyroid gland, which is part of the endocrine system. A hyperactive thyroid increases body metabolism, which is the rate at which the body burns energy. This is what causes the weight loss in spite of a seemingly insatiable appetite. An overactive thyroid can also cause goiter (a swelling of the thyroid gland) and exophthalmos (bulging eyes).

Tips for avoiding weight gain:

If you are hypothyroid there are ways you can keep weight gain to a minimum. It is important to get started with a healthy diet and increase your physical activity. Decreasing your caloric intake and getting involved in a more active lifestyle will go a long way in keeping the weight off and staying healthy.

Be aware of undertreatment. Some endocrinologists believe that patients do not feel well and can't lose weight unless TSH is in the low-normal range.

Ask your doctor bout adding T3 to your thyroid medications. Research reveals that many people with underactive thyroids do better when T3 is added to levothyroxine (Synthroid or Levoxyl.)

Make sure you're not sabotaging your thyroid drug treatment. Doctors have found that taking calcium supplements or calcium-fortified orange juice, vitamins with iron, and antacids can inhibit absorption of thyroid medications. Take these supplements at least three to six hours apart from thyroid hormone.

Break up meals to six mini meals instead of three heavy meals during the day. Small 250-calorie mini-meals can help balance blood sugar, prevent fat storage, and help you feel less hungry.

Limit the amount of starches you eat, such as bread, pasta, and rice. Additionally, avoid refined sugars.

Start a diet of low fat, protein, and complex carbohydrates like vegetables.

Consult your doctor about using an antidepressant. Sometimes people with an underactive thyroid find weight loss is more effective when an antidepressant is added to their medication therapy.

Take 30 minutes a day to increase physical activity. A brisk walk for ten minutes, three times per day raises metabolism and burns calories.

by Barb Hicks, RN/LMT