How to safely lose weight for patients with hypothyroidism

hypothyroidism patients can safely lose weight by adjusting their diet structure, exercising reasonably, using standardized medication, regularly monitoring thyroid function, and psychological regulation. Hypothyroidism, also known as hypothyroidism, may be caused by autoimmune thyroiditis, thyroid surgery, radioactive iodine therapy, iodine deficiency, pituitary lesions, and other factors. It often manifests as symptoms such as weight gain, chills, and fatigue. It is recommended to develop a personalized weight loss plan under the guidance of a doctor.

1. Adjusting dietary structure

Patients with hypothyroidism should control their daily calorie intake within a reasonable range, mainly consisting of high-quality protein, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables and fruits rich in dietary fiber. Moderately increase iodine rich foods such as kelp and seaweed to avoid excessive calorie restriction and further metabolic decline. Eat small amounts 5-6 times a day, reducing the intake of refined sugars and trans fats. The main cooking method is steaming and stewing.

2. Reasonable Exercise

Start with low-intensity aerobic exercise, such as 30 minutes of brisk walking, swimming, or cycling per day, gradually increasing to 150 minutes per week. Joint resistance training is conducted 2-3 times a week, with 8-10 sets of movements each time. Pay attention to warming up thoroughly before exercise. To avoid palpitations caused by intense exercise, it is recommended to choose a period of 4 hours after taking medication when thyroid hormone levels are relatively stable.

III. Standardized Medication

Strictly follow the doctor's advice to take levothyroxine sodium tablets, commonly used drugs include levothyroxine, rituximab, Jiaheng, etc. Medication should be taken on an empty stomach, with a minimum interval of 30 minutes between meals, and avoid taking with calcium or iron supplements. Regularly review TSH indicators and adjust the dosage based on the examination results. Do not increase or decrease the dosage on your own. Insufficient drug dosage can affect weight loss effectiveness, while excessive dosage may lead to discomfort such as palpitations.

Fourth, regular monitoring of thyroid function

Thyroid stimulating hormone and free thyroxine levels should be tested every 6-8 weeks, and more frequent monitoring is needed in the early stages of treatment. Simultaneously pay attention to metabolic indicators such as blood lipids and liver function, and record the weight change curve. When TSH is stable in the range of 0.5-2.5mIU/L, the weight loss effect is most ideal. If there is persistent fatigue or abnormal heart rate, seek medical attention promptly to adjust the treatment plan.

Fifth, Psychological Regulation

The metabolic slowdown caused by hypothyroidism may slow down the weight loss process compared to the general population, and reasonable expectations need to be established. Relieving anxiety and maintaining sufficient sleep through mindfulness training, psychological counseling, and other methods can help with leptin secretion. A management team can be formed with endocrinologists and nutritionists to record changes in body fat percentage and other body composition every two weeks, and pay attention to positive signals such as waist circumference reduction that are not on the scale. During the weight loss period, patients with hypothyroidism should drink at least 2000 milliliters of water per day to ensure a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late. Moderate consumption of selenium rich foods such as Brazil nuts and mushrooms can assist thyroid function. Pay attention to keeping warm in winter and avoid aggravating metabolic abnormalities due to cold stimulation. If there is obvious edema or a rapid increase in weight in the short term, be alert to the possibility of myxoedema and seek medical attention immediately. The recommended weight loss goal is to lose no more than 3% of total weight per month, which is more effective when combined with long-term lifestyle management.