Reviewed By Blake Gilliam, CRNP
Reading Time: 4 minutes
If you suffer from Hashimoto’s disease and are trying to lose weight, it can be a real challenge. Individuals with an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) often have a hard time losing weight despite their best efforts.
In this blog we will provide effective strategies for weight loss, discuss which foods to eat and avoid, and offer helpful tips to manage this autoimmune disease.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaway
Individuals with Hashimoto’s disease can successfully manage their weight and overall health by adopting a holistic approach that includes dietary modifications, stress management, regular exercise, and open communication with their healthcare providers.
Challenges of Losing Weight with Hashimoto’s Disease
People with Hashimoto’s disease struggle with weight gain because their thyroid gland fails to produce adequate thyroid hormones. Low thyroid hormone levels can slow down your metabolic processes, which leads to a decreased basal metabolic rate.
This condition can result in chronic inflammation, poor nutritional absorption, and a decrease in energy levels, making weight loss efforts even more challenging.
Effective Strategies for Weight Loss with Hashimoto’s Disease
To achieve positive weight loss results, consider the following strategies:
- Optimize thyroid medications: Consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that your thyroid hormone levels are within optimal ranges. Proper adjustments in thyroid medications can significantly impact your weight loss progress.
- Monitor diet closely: Adopt a nutrient-dense and balanced diet to support your metabolic health and hormone regulation.
- Increase physical activity: Engage in regular exercise, including weight training and cardiovascular activities, to support your metabolism and build muscle mass.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can elevate your cortisol levels, which may interfere with weight loss. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep.
Foods to Eat and Foods to Avoid
The foods you choose can significantly impact your thyroid health, metabolism, and overall well-being when you have Hashimoto’s. Focus on nourishing foods that support your body while avoiding those that may exacerbate symptoms or hinder weight loss.
Foods to Eat
- Lean proteins: These provide essential amino acids for thyroid hormone production and muscle building, which helps support metabolism. Opt for chicken, turkey, fish, beans and lentils.
- Fibrous foods: Vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach will improve your digestion and promote feeling full.
- Healthy fats: These are crucial for thyroid hormone production. Include sources like olive oil, coconut oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds in your diet.
- Probiotics: Incorporate foods like yogurt and fermented vegetables to improve gut health and reduce systemic inflammation.
Foods to Avoid
- Gluten: Individuals with Hashimoto’s may benefit from a gluten-free diet, especially if they have celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
- Inflammatory foods: Avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and trans fats, which can contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation.
- Cruciferous vegetables: Limit intake of raw cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower as they can interfere with thyroid function in large amounts.
- Soy products: Soy can impact thyroid hormone absorption and should be consumed in moderation.
Additional Tips for Managing Hashimoto’s Disease
- Stay hydrated: Adequate water intake aids in metabolism and reduces brain fog.
- Consider a paleo or anti-inflammatory diet: These diets can decrease inflammation and improve insulin resistance, aiding in weight loss.
- Supplements and vitamins: Take supplements such as Vitamin D, Selenium, and probiotics to improve nutritional status and combat poor absorption of food.
Weight Loss With Madison Integrative Medicine
If you are trying to lose weight with Hashimoto’s disease, you don’t have to go through it alone. We understand the challenges of weight loss and the impact of Hashimoto’s disease on your overall well-being.
Our integrative approach combines conventional medicine with holistic practices to help you lose weight and manage your autoimmune disorder effectively.
If you are searching for a medical weight loss center, a ‘thyroid specialist near me’, we can help! Call (256) 325-0955 to book an appointment or complete the online inquiry form.
FAQs about Hashimoto’s and Weight Loss
Is it possible to lose weight with Hashimoto’s?
Yes, it is possible to lose weight with Hashimoto’s disease. Optimize your thyroid medication, maintain a balanced diet, increase physical activity, and manage stress to achieve weight loss. Consult with a healthcare professional who understands the complexities of Hashimoto’s.
Can someone with hypothyroidism take semaglutide?
Yes, individuals with hypothyroidism, including those with Hashimoto’s disease, can take semaglutide under the guidance of their healthcare provider. However, if individuals or their family members have a history of thyroid cancer or multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN2), semaglutide may not be suitable.