Due to the problem of hypothyroidism, you will often have to struggle with symptoms like fatigue, weight gain problems, constipation and feeling very cold. Your weight keeps increasing every time and it also reduces your confidence. A disease like hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid is less active. Due to this, the metabolic rate reduces significantly and your weight keeps increasing. This problem can become more serious with age. It is far more common in women than men.

With a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep and proper medication, it can be easy for you to control your weight even in this condition. DrDheeraj Kapoor, Chief of Endocrinology at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, gave some tips for maintaining weight during hypothyroidism. Let's learn about these tips.

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a common condition where the thyroid does not make or release enough thyroid hormone into your bloodstream. This slows down your metabolism. It is also called underactive thyroid. In this situation, you feel tired. This may increase your weight and you may not be able to tolerate cold.

If your hypothyroidism is not treated on time, your weight increases. By treating this condition properly, weight can be managed. However, you need to watch your calories and exercise to lose weight. With the help of these tips, you can manage your weight.

1. Eat a balanced diet

Patients with hypothyroidism need to eat a balanced diet. Focus on whole food items, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Include iodine-rich foods like seaweed and dairy items in your diet. These are essential for thyroid function. Also, limit processed foods, refined sugars, and excessive caffeine, as they disrupt thyroid function.

2. Eat mindfully

The best way to manage your weight is to focus on mindful eating. It is important to avoid overeating at any time of the day. It plays an important role in managing weight. You should know what the difference between hunger and cravings is. Eat your food slowly and savour every bite. Keep one thing in mind whenever you eat, do not sit in front of the TV and smartphone. Due to this, you start eating without thinking.

3. It is necessary to do regular exercise

Physical activity is important to control weight with hypothyroidism. It would be good to do aerobic exercise, strength training and exercises that increase flexibility. Working out for an hour daily will also increase your metabolism rate. This will help in managing weight. Yes, but avoid doing too heavy training.

4. Manage stress

Your thyroid works in tandem with the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are located above the kidneys and can handle less stress. When you are stressed, cortisol is released.

The most common thyroid disorder is an autoimmune disorder, in which the body attacks its tissue. There are two types, Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Graves' disease causes the thyroid to become overactive, while Hashimoto's causes it to become less active. Stress alone will not cause thyroid disorder, but it can make your condition worse. For this, whenever there is stress, adopt habits like meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises.

5. Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is important not just in this situation, but all the time. It keeps your mood right throughout the day. Quality sleep is important for managing weight and overall health. Hypothyroidism can disrupt sleep patterns, contributing to weight gain. A regular sleep cycle is important for you. Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep every night.

6. Monitor your health

Keep consulting your doctor regularly to monitor your thyroid levels. Take the medicine dose on time and also keep monitoring your weight. Thyroid hormone medicine should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach with plenty of water. Keep this in mind and do not forget to take your medicine even for a single day. Do not take it with any other medicines and wait at least 30 to 60 minutes before having breakfast.

It's important to note that managing weight with hypothyroidism can take time. Consult your doctor before making changes in your diet, workout and medicine.

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