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Weight Loss for People With Thyroid Disorders

Hypothyroidism is a chronic condition caused by your thyroid gland underproducing hormones. Sudden weight gain can occur, as your metabolism slows in the process. Hypothyroidism also causes fatigue, muscle weakness, depression and brittle hair and fingernails, according to the Mayo Clinic. To reduce these symptoms, you must first increase your hormone production by taking medication prescribed by your physician. Also lose weight by adjusting your diet and avoiding certain supplements that interfere with levothyroxine absorption.

  1. Medication

    • Hormone replacement therapy is an effective way to restore balance to your hormone levels, which increases your metabolism and causes you to lose weight. Medications such as Unithroid, Synthroid and Levoxyl are synthetic thyroid hormones to alleviate hypothyroidism. Once you begin hormone replacement therapy, you must continue for the rest of your life, or hypothyroidism will reappear and cause weight gain. Side effects from the medication include headache, insomnia, nervousness, irritability and changes in appetite.

    Dietary Changes

    • A healthy diet of iodine-dense foods is a way to improve thyroid functioning. Avoid foods that contain goitrogens, as these substances found in some foods interfere with thyroid absorption, which exacerbates hypothyroidism. Foods that contain goitrogens include cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, peanuts, pears, kale, turnips, cabbage and pine nuts, according to "Overcoming Thyroid Problems." Healthy foods you should consume on a daily basis are tomatoes, asparagus, carrots, radishes, squash, lima beans, mushrooms and onions. Strawberries can supply small amounts of iodine, which helps control thyroid function. Fish is also rich in iodine, and should be consumed once a day to increase iodine intake. According to "The Complete Thyroid Book," avoid soy products as they can also interfere with hormone absorption.

    Vitamin Supplements

    • Although vitamin supplements provide nutrients when you are unable to get them from food, some supplements can interfere with your levothyroxine absorption, which can lead to weight gain. According to "Overcoming Thyroid Problems," calcium and iron supplements, cholesterol-reducing medication and antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide interfere with levothyroxine absorption. Discontinue taking these supplements and medications until your physician tells you otherwise.

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