The Relationship Between Thyroid and Weight Reduction

Have you been trying for years to lose weight with no success? Maybe its time to have your thyroid tested. Our metabolism is controlled largely by our thyroid gland and any problems with that gland can cause weight problems. This may include a gain in weight, loss of weight, or hardship in losing weight.

Many of the standard diets and the diet companies that tout their products do so without considering the affect of the metabolism of the individual. The majority stick to the theory of cutting calories and increasing exercise. If there is a problem with the thyroid, however, this may be a lot easier said than done.

An overactive thyroid creates a condition called hyperthyroidism which makes the metabolism go into overdrive causing fast weight loss. Although to some, this may sound like the perfect problem to have, it is actually dangerous. Sufferers of hyperthyroidism have difficulty in retaining enough weight for them to remain healthy. They often have bulging eyes and feel quite weak.

A slow metabolism is known as hypothyroidism and causes weight gain at an incredible rate. Hypothyroidism also causes the sufferer to feel weak and lethargic. Contrary to popular belief, people who have hypothyroidism often eat far less calories than is healthy for them so cutting calories can cause serious health problems.

The unfortunate belief is that cutting calories to an inordinate amount will make them lose more weight. While calorie control does help in diets, eating too little will make the body think it is in famine mode and it will store these calories as fat. This is because a slow metabolism is slow to adjust to the smaller amount of calories to burn. This makes the conquest to lose weight almost impossible.

Also, if you eat a large high calorie meal when your metabolism has slowed right down, the body will gain even more weight because of the increased surplus. That is why you need to eat balanced meals. If the body is fluctuating from and increase in calories to a loss of calories often, it will cause an imbalance that directly affects fat accumulation.

To ascertain whether or not you have a thyroid problem, you must first see your medical professional who can arrange blood tests.

You may also see a dietician who can tailor a diet that suits your needs and takes into account the difficulties your condition presents. No matter what you decide, the basics are the same. If you eat more than you need, your body accumulates fat. However, a good dietician should be able to help you through the maze.