The thyroid is a small gland located on the windpipe which primarily regulates metabolism. However, many other bodily functions are controlled by the thyroid. Growth, fertility, body temperature, cholesterol levels, appetite, brain function, memory, vision and coordination are all influenced by the thyroid. However, if you are like most women, you are primarily concerned with the connection between thyroid and metabolism. This is because an under-active thyroid has been associated with small weight gains. The American Thyroid Association describes this weight gain, “Since the BMR in the patient with hypothyroidism is decreased, an under-active thyroid is generally associated with some weight gain. The weight gain is often greater in those individuals with more severe hypothyroidism.”
If you are concerned about your thyroid level, you should consult your physician to determine if your weight loss program is being deterred by thyroid disease. Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue, depression, forgetfulness, dry hair, brittle nails, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, heavy menstrual flow and constipation. Your doctor can perform a simple blood test that can determine if your thyroid is functioning properly. If your thyroid is problematic, your doctor can prescribe a treatment plan to rectify the condition. However, if your thyroid is not malfunctioning, your doctor may be able to recommend a weight loss program that will help you achieve your weight loss goals.
Managing Thyroid Function for Weight Loss
Women who are diagnosed with hypothyroidism can manage their weight loss by undergoing treatment to correct the thyroid hormone levels in the blood. The primary reason for treating these conditions is to correct metabolic problems and prevent serious problems such as loss of muscle proteins. However, for many women, there is an added bonus in losing some excess weight. The amount of weight gain associated with hypothyroidism is typically only 5-10 pounds. However, these pounds can be difficult to lose with only ordinary diet and exercise. Once the thyroid hormone level is normalized, you should shed the weight caused by the deficient thyroid hormone levels rather quickly.
Combining Thyroid Treatment with Exercise and Diet
For a truly effective weight loss program in the presence of thyroid disease, it is worthwhile to consider combining thyroid hormone treatment with an exercise program and a healthy diet. According to the American Thyroid Association, “Massive weight gain is rarely associated with hypothyroidism. In general, 5-10 pounds of body weight may be attributable to the thyroid, depending on the severity of the hypothyroidism.” For those who are significantly overweight, the amount of weight caused by the deficient thyroid is considered minimal.
Correcting the thyroid hormone levels in the blood will likely result in a weight loss of 5-10 pounds but is unlikely to result in additional weight loss beyond this amount. For this reason, it is very important to be sure you are eating a proper diet and exercising regularly. These additional measures will help you to lose any additional weight once your thyroid hormone levels are corrected.
Using Herbal Supplements to Fight Thyroid Disease
The use of herbal supplements to fight thyroid disease and lose weight can be effective for some women. If you are considering the use of supplements to help regulate your thyroid hormone levels and achieve your weight loss goals, you should investigate Thyvox. The website: http://www.Thyvox.com provides more information and can help you to determine if this herbal supplement is right for you.
It is not recommended that you diagnose yourself and use over the counter herbal supplements to treat yourself. If you suspect thyroid disease, you should confirm this with your doctor and discuss treatment options with him or her. He or she may recommend the use of supplements in a prescribed manner. Taking these supplements under the direction of a doctor is significantly safer than using them without a doctor’s consent because the doctor can make you aware of possible risks and complications of taking supplements in combination with other medications.