How to Lose Weight With a Slow Thyroid

There is a relationship between weight, metabolism and the thyroid. The thyroid regulates the metabolism. If you have an under-active thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism, there may be weight gain. Not only does hypothyroidism slow down the metabolism and hence the rate at which calories are burned, it also makes you feel sluggish and less likely to be active and burn calories that way. Losing weight with a slow thyroid takes a targeted diet and fitness routine. It may also include medication to regulate the thyroid.

Instructions

• 1

  Make an appointment with your doctor. Get a full physical to determine thyroid levels. This will determine whether or not you need medication to correct a slow thyroid. Testing the thyroid will involve blood tests.

• 2

  Take a synthetic thyroid hormone if prescribed by your doctor. Synthroid and Levothroid are both thyroid medications. They restore hormones to the optimal level. This will generally spur weight loss.

• 3

  Eat a diet that is moderate to high protein, low fat and low in carbohydrates. It's fine to include small amounts of healthy fats such as olive oil and avocados. Limit intake of rice, potatoes, bread, and most foods containing starches and sugar. Protein sources to include are lean meats such as turkey, eggs and tofu. Eating this way will increase weight loss with a slow thyroid.

• 4

  Do aerobic exercise four to five times per week for 30 to 60 minutes per session. According to Jean-Pierre Despress, PhD, a professor of medicine at Laval University Hospital, exercise is one of the best treatments for insulin resistance, which is often a component of a slow thyroid. Examples of aerobic exercise are step aerobics, brisk walking and cycling.