Hypothyroidism is a metabolic disorder. In this, the production of hormones in the thyroid gland is low, due to which many health problems can occur.
People suffering from hypothyroidism usually gain weight rapidly. Despite a healthy diet and daily exercise, it is quite difficult for them to lose weight. However, with some vigilance and caution, weight can be reduced.
According to a report published in the National Library of Medicine, around 4.2 crore people in India suffer from thyroid.
According to a report published in the medical journal 'Lancet', 11% of people in India suffer from hypothyroidism. Whereas this number is only 2% in the UK and 4.6% in the US. The possible reason for this is the long-standing iodine deficiency in the country. People living in land areas are at higher risk than those living near the sea.
What is hypothyroidism?
There are two types of thyroid problems, one is hypothyroidism and the other is hyperthyroidism. In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland produces less hormones and in hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces more hormones. If it is not treated at the right time, the problems increase.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck below the voice box. This gland is responsible for producing hormones, regulating metabolism, and keeping all organs functioning properly.
What is the connection between hypothyroidism and weight gain?
The essential hormones produced in the thyroid gland control the body's metabolism. When there is a deficiency of these, the metabolism slows down. Due to this, more calories get stored in the body and weight increases.
In hypothyroidism, one feels tired and weak, which leads to a decrease in physical activity, which is a reason for weight gain. Apart from this, in hypothyroidism, one feels more hungry, due to which the person eats more. This can also cause weight gain.
How do we know if someone is suffering from hypothyroidism?
Usually there are hardly any symptoms of hypothyroidism in the initial stages. However, some of its most common symptoms include weight gain, muscle pain, feeling cold, weakness, stress or anxiety, and swelling in the face.
If any of these symptoms appear, it is important to consult a doctor. Doctors do a blood test to detect hypothyroidis
Can weight be reduced in hypothyroidism?
Dr. explains that in hypothyroidism the metabolism slows down, which can make it difficult to lose weight. But with proper care and lifestyle changes, weight loss is possible. For this, a person suffering from hypothyroidism should take some necessary steps. Understand this with the pointers below-
Keep in mind that a person suffering from hypothyroidism should not try to lose weight too fast. This can be harmful for health. Therefore, weight should be reduced slowly and steadily. To lose weight in hypothyroidism, it is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle as well as take a balanced diet.
What to include in the diet for weight loss in hypothyroidism?
For this, include iodine-rich things in your diet. Such as iodised salt, plums, bananas and dairy products. Vitamin D deficiency in hypothyroidism also causes weight gain. Therefore, include foods rich in vitamin D in the diet. Apart from this, what else can you eat, see it in the pointers below-
What should not be eaten in hypothyroidism?
To reduce the weight gained due to hypothyroidism, it is not enough to just know what to eat and what not to eat. It is also important to know when and how much to eat. For this, eat small amounts several times. Avoid eating just before sleeping and never overeat.
Apart from this, people suffering from hypothyroidism need to be very cautious about their food and drinks.