8 Tips for Hypothyroid Patients to Lose Weight
Losing weight and maintaining it can be a struggle for people suffering from hypothyroidism. Though following a fairly strict diet help keep weight in check, the underactive thyroid gland can impact metabolic rate and trigger weight gain.
To deal with the weight issue, you must set an action plan and stick to it for life. If you are a person struggling with weight gain due to hypothyroidism, follow these 8 tips to lose weight faster:
- Opt for a gluten-free diet
Hypothyroid patients can follow a gluten-free diet to lose weight. Gluten is high in goitrogens, which interfere with iodine uptake and suppress thyroid function.
- Never skip workouts
Aside from following a healthy diet, hypothyroid patients must perform regular exercises. An exercise routine can help regulate metabolic homeostasis and burn calories.
- Eat small and frequent meals
People with hypothyroidism will have a slow digestive function. Therefore, it is essential to have smaller and more frequent meals with balanced macronutrients to control the blood sugar level.
- Avoid stress
Hypothyroid patients should avoid stress as it can lead to thyroid imbalance and affect food preferences. Some people turn to unhealthy food choices and overeating to combat stress. Practicing yoga, meditation or breathing exercises daily can help lower the levels of stress hormones in your body.
- Limit the intake of sugary and starchy foods
Reduce the intake of foods that are rich in sugar and starch. Cut down the consumption of pasta, rice, potatoes, white flour bread, sweet potatoes, desserts, dairy products, meats, and fruits with a high sugar content.
- Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep is one of the common causes of obesity. Make sure to get a sound sleep of at least 6 to 8 hours in a day.
- Plate your meals in the kitchen
Instead of keeping all the prepared food on the table, plate your meal in the kitchen itself. This habit will prevent you from going for a second round.
- Keep a food journal
Hypothyroid patients need to maintain a food journal for tracking their everyday macronutrients intake. They are advised to follow a diet comprising of healthy fats, moderate proteins, and moderate- to low-carbohydrates.
We hope these tips help you lose weight with an under active thyroid.
