The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. It produces thyroid hormones, which play a vital role in regulating the body's metabolism. Metabolism is the process by which the body converts food into energy. metabolism rate is one of the main contributing factors to our body weight and should take a view of it when we in our weight loss journey. Thyroid hormones also play a role in regulating other bodily functions, such as heart rate, body temperature, and mood.
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Weight Loss and Thyroid Hormones |
What are thyroid hormones?
are produced by the thyroid gland. The two main thyroid hormones are thyroxin (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). T4 is the inactive form of the thyroid hormone, and it is converted to T3, the active form, by the body's tissues.
T3 binds to receptors in cells throughout the body and regulates metabolism. metabolism controlling our body weight and should be a concern when we are at weight loss practices. T3 also plays a role in regulating other bodily functions, such as heart rate, body temperature, and mood.
The normal levels of thyroid hormones
The normal levels of thyroid hormones T3 and T4 in a healthy person vary depending on the
age and the laboratory test used. However, in general, the following ranges are considered normal:
T3: 5-12 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dL)
T4: 80-220 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL)
How do thyroid hormones affectweight?
· When the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid
hormone (hyperthyroidism), the metabolism speeds up, and the body burns more calories. This can lead to weight loss.
· When the thyroid gland produces too little thyroid
hormone (hypothyroidism), the metabolism slows down, and the body burns fewer calories. This can lead to weight gain.
Hyperthyroidism and weight loss
People with hyperthyroidism often lose weight even if they are eating the same amount of food or exercising more. This
is because the increased thyroid hormone levels cause the metabolism to speed up.
Other symptoms of hyperthyroidism include:
Increased heart rate
Palpitations (feeling like the heart is racing or skipping beats)
Sweating
Tremors
Anxiety
Difficulty sleeping
Heat intolerance
If you have any of these symptoms, it is
important to see a doctor to get diagnosed and treated.
There are three main treatment options for hyperthyroidism:
Anti-thyroid medications: These medications work by blocking the
thyroid gland from producing too much thyroid hormone. The two most common
anti-thyroid medications are methimazole (Tapazole) and propylthiouracil (PTU).
Radioactive iodine therapy: This treatment involves taking a
radioactive pill that is absorbed by the thyroid gland. The radiation destroys
some of the thyroid cells, which reduces the amount of thyroid hormone that the gland produces.
Surgery: Surgery to remove the thyroid gland is called a thyroidectomy. This is a more permanent treatment for hyperthyroidism, but it is also the most invasive.
The best treatment option for you will depend on your individual circumstances. Your doctor will take into account your age, overall health, and the severity of your hyperthyroidism when making a recommendation.
Foods should eaten With hyperthyroidism
Should to eat foods rich with the following vitamins and minerals or take it
directly as a food supplement:
· Calcium and VitD.
· Selenium
· Zinc
· Iron
· Foods with low iodine content
· Green vegetables.
· Healthy fats.
Tips for weight loss during hyperthyroidism:
· Follow the medication instructions by your doctor.
· Check your thyroid hormone level periodically.
· If you take any medication or supplement check with
your doctor and pharmacist about drug-drug interaction.
· Set a reasonable goal to lose your body weight. Not more
than 2 pounds per week.
· Make lifestyle changes.
· Exercise regularly.
· Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and
duration of your workouts
· Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after
exercise.
· Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
· Communicate with your body effectively.
Hypothyroidism and weight gain
People with hypothyroidism often gain
weight even if they are eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. This is
because the decreased thyroid hormone levels cause the metabolism to slow down.
Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
Fatigue
Sensitivity to cold
Constipation
Dry skin
Hair loss
Weight gain
Difficulty concentrating
Depression
If you have any of these symptoms, it is
important to see a doctor to get diagnosed and treated.
The main treatment for hypothyroidism
Is thyroid hormone replacement therapy. This involves taking a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxin (levothyroxine). Levothyroxine is taken once daily, and it is usually effective in relieving the symptoms of hypothyroidism within a few weeks.
Foods should to eaten with hypothyroidism
Should to eat foods rich in the following:
ü Seaweed
ü Omega-3
ü Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
ü Nuts
ü Beans
Tips for weight loss during hypothyroidism:
· Follow the instructions from your doctor
· Check your thyroid hormone periodically.
· If you take any medication or supplement cheek
with your doctor and pharmacist about drug-drug interaction.
· Set a reasonable goal to lose your body weight. Not more
than 2 pounds per week.
· Start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and
duration of your workouts
· Make lifestyle changes.
· Exercise regularly.
· Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after
exercise.
· Wear comfortable clothing and shoes
· Communicate with your body effectively
Conclusion:
If you are concerned about your thyroid health, talk to your doctor. They can perform tests to check your thyroid hormone levels and diagnose any thyroid disorders. By following your doctor's recommendations and making healthy lifestyle changes, you can manage your thyroid hormone disorders and lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
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