Weight gain- the sad reality of many that everyone wishes to escape but an unusual reality for some who experience it despite being active and eating what they usually do. So, what causes unexpected weight gain? There are many reasons for the increasing numbers on the scale but one of the most common is hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid.

A diet plan for thyroid patient coupled with an exercise regimen is one of the effective ways to shed the extra kilos. However, it is imperative to understand how hypothyroidism influences our weight and how can we manage weight.

The Connection Between Weight Gain and Hypothyroidism
Weight gain is known to be one of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. Here’s why- The two prominent thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) influence the metabolism by circulating and interacting with your Liver, Muscles, Pancreas, Hypothalamus and Fat cells.

The basic function of thyroid hormones is to help organs such as the liver and pancreas to metabolise the stored fat and use it as energy. Furthermore, it also helps to break down the fat and help the muscles as they use the energy. When the body receives the optimal amount of thyroid hormones, the thyroid hormone regulator in the brain- the hypothalamus reduces the amount of TSH secretion which dictates your thyroid how much thyroid hormones it should make.

In the absence of an adequate amount of hormones, all of the above functions are disrupted. The body tends to befriend calories and store them in the form of fat which is difficult to burn. Weight gain in hypothyroidism is also a possibility due to excess water and salt accumulation in hypothyroid individuals.

Other symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

  • Fatigue
  • Constipation
  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Hoarseness
  • Puffy face
  • Dry skin
  • Muscle weakness

Weight Loss and Hypothyroidism
While weight loss may be difficult with hypothyroidism, it isn’t impossible. It includes not just exercising but a proper diet, sleep, planning, dedication and a lot more.
You can set a target by determining your current weight and the ideal weight you plan to achieve. A BMI calculator will be beneficial for this purpose. Furthermore, you can also assess your BMR which can help you understand the number of calories you need to lose weight.

Diet, Exercise and Sleep- The Essentials
The above are the three essentials that you cannot compromise with. Coaching for weight loss by a certified nutritionist can help you gain all the nutrition your body needs. Furthermore, such professionals also suggest effective exercises that’ll help you lose weight. FAD diets, only liquid diets, etc may help you lose the extra pounds but they’ll also cause you to become weak and negatively impact your health.

Sleep is yet another critical factor that is directly related to weight gain. An adult must get at least 7 hours of sleep every day. It not only makes you look alive but also helps you to keep your weight off.

At FitnFab, we help people avail healthy solutions to their health problems which also include thyroid and weight loss. Get in touch with us today to get the best diet plan and coaching that’ll guide you towards the path of good health.