The lack of thyroid hormone, which occurs in hypothyroidism slows almost all metabolic processes of the body. Therefore, hypothyroidism often triggers weight gain, even if the affected patients eat little. In addition, there is an increased fluid retention between the organs and cells (interstitium). This also increases the body weight.
Weight loss with hypothyroidism
Losing weight despite hypothyroidism is not easy, but still possible. The combination of different approaches helps:
Take thyroid hormones
As long as the cause of the unwanted weight gain – the lack of thyroid hormones – is not eliminated, people with hypothyroidism will hardly succeed in losing weight. First, it is therefore necessary to start under medical supervision with the intake of the artificial thyroid hormone L-thyroxine. It replaces the missing endogenous hormones. This allows the metabolism to “accelerate” again – the prerequisite for successful weight loss.
have patience
Whether a hypothyroidism is the reason for the overweight or other causes behind it – who wants to permanently reduce his weight, requires patience. Because no matter how many energy reserves the body has accumulated on the hip, buttocks or thighs, he will defend himself against weight loss. Behind this is an originally once important body function: In the past, it was vital for people to be able to quickly compensate for weight loss and maintain energy reserves.
Therefore, fashion diets that promise a loss of weight in no time, even nonsensical: Although the kilos tumble really fast, but usually just as quickly back on the hips.
Doctor for advice
Patients who are overweight due to hypothyroidism should seek advice from the doctor if they are seeking to lose weight. How much weight loss is good depends, among other things, on the extent of the overweight, the age of the patient and his or her state of health. Physicians and patients can agree on a treatment goal – that is, a desired weight – and decide how best to achieve it.
Proper diet and exercise
Healthy weight loss is based primarily on a good balance of diet and exercise. Physicians and / or nutritionists can help to create a suitable diet. It should consist of a calorie-reduced, but balanced and varied mixed diet. Individual likes and dislikes should be taken into account to make it easier for the patient to comply.
Which and how much sport best supports weight loss in case of hypothyroidism should be discussed with an experienced doctor or sports therapist. Among other things, the current state of fitness, possible concomitant illnesses and health problems that have already caused overweight (for example knee damage) play an important role. When creating the training program also sports or forms of exercise should be chosen that protect the joints and spine and make the patient fun. This applies to people without thyroid problems as well as those with Hypothyroidism: losing weight requires regular and consistent exercise, and those who enjoy it can easily stick to it.