Hypothyroidism and nutrition: Weight loss with an underactive thyroid gland
Although the thyroid gland is a small organ it should not be underestimated. It produces vital hormones that affect almost all body functions. Hypothyroidism can therefore affect many physical processes. People who suffer from an underactive thyroid often gain weight, even if they eat less than a normal person. The right diet for hypothyroidism is therefore crucial when it comes to losing weight!
This article will therefore discuss many aspects of the thyroid gland. You will learn how an underactive thyroid can affect your body and weight. You will also learn what you can change in your diet to help with an underactive thyroid.
What is hypothyroidism?
An underactive thyroid, also known as Hypothyroidism, is characterized by a lack of hormone production by the thyroid gland. As a result, many body functions are negatively affected. Among other things, almost all metabolic processes are slowed as a result, which often leads to weight gain no matter how little the person eats. Additionally more water is stored in the body, as a result body weight can also increase. Thyroid problems are generally common.
Women suffer from hypothyroidism more often than men.
What does the thyroid gland do?
The thyroid gland is located slightly below the voice box, like a shield in front of the trachea. Although it is relatively small, it is the largest endocrine (hormone) gland of the body and therefore participates in the regulation of numerous body functions. A deficiency or excess of thyroid hormones can therefore have a negative effect on the metabolism, basic metabolic rate, growth, development, temperature regulation as well as brain development and function.So you should not underestimate the small, butterfly-shaped organ.
What thyroid hormones are there?
The production of thyroid hormones is controlled by various centers in the brain. Part of the brain (the hypothalamus) secretes the hormone TRH. TRH signals another part of the brain (the pituitary gland) to release the hormone TSH. TSH ultimately stimulates the production of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and calcitonin. If we have enough thyroid hormones, the production is inhibited. Hypothyroidism can result from disorders at all three levels.
The thyroid hormones T3 and T4
For the production of the two thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), the body needs iodine and protein. Thyroxine is the precursor of triiodothyronine. T4 is mainly used for the transport of iodine and does almost all of its work after it has been converted into T3. For this reason, T3 is two to four times more effective and faster acting than T4.
| T4 | T3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Production (µg per day) | approx. 90 | approx. 10 |
| Onset of action (hours) after oral administration | 12-24 | 2-4 |
| Plasma half-life (days) | 7 | 0.75 |
| Proportion that comes directly from the thyroid gland | 100% | 20% |
Both hormones stimulate the protein metabolism and thus contribute to the growth and maturation of the brain and bones, amongst other things.In addition, the increased protein synthesis increases the basal metabolic rate. So we burn more energy without increasing our physical activity. The thyroid hormones also impact the activity of other hormones and thus stimulate the carbohydrate metabolism and support the lipid (fat) metabolism.
The thyroid hormone calcitonin
Calcitonin is formed mainly in the thyroid gland.As the name suggests, the hormone is linked to calcium.It regulates the calcium and phosphate balance of the body. As a result, it plays an important role in bone metabolism. Calcitonin reduces the level of calcium in the blood, as a result of which less calcium is released from the bone.The thyroid hormone thus protects our bones from the development of osteoporosis.
What does the thyroid gland need to make hormones?
In order for the thyroid gland to produce enough hormones, it needs iodine. The body cannot produce iodine itself, so it must be ingested through food. NHS recommends 140 µg of iodine for an adult per day. Both in childhood and old age we need a little less iodine. During pregnancy and while nursing, however, the amount needed increases.
How does selenium affect the thyroid gland?
The metabolic processes of iodine and selenium are closely related. Iodine creates a substance in the production of thyroid hormones, which damages the thyroid tissue. Selenium inactivates this substance and thus protects the thyroid gland. According to the NHS, adults should consume about 60-75 µg of selenium per day. Children and adolescents have a lower need, but for women who are breastfeeding, the recommended intake increases.
The majority of the body’s stores of iodine and selenium are found in the thyroid gland.
What causes hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism can occur due to the disruption of hormone production at one of the three levels (hypothalamus, pituitary gland and thyroid gland). The disease can also be congenital (present from birth) or develop only in the course of life. However, in most cases, hypothyroidism develops due to chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis).
With Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, healthy thyroid tissue is broken down, which means that fewer cells are available for hormone production. Initially, the need for hormones can be compensated for by the remaining cells. However, if too much tissue is damaged, the healthy cells can no longer produce enough hormones, resulting in a lack of sufficient hormones. For this reason, hypothyroidism usually goes unnoticed at first and develops gradually.
Due to the reduced hormone concentration in the blood, an increased TRH secretion can also occur. In this case, the thyroid gland tries to cope by increasing in size. So there is an enlargement of the thyroid gland, which is also called goitre.
Other causes of hypothyroidism
The most common reason for hypothyroidism is the loss of functional thyroid tissue as a result of chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland (Hashimoto’s thyroiditis). However, hypothyroidism can also have other causes. There are three types of hypothyroidism:
| Type | Cause |
|---|---|
| Primary hypothyroidism | Congenital (present from birth):
Acquired:
|
| Secondary hypothyroidism |
|
| Tertiary hypothyroidism |
|
What happens when your thyroid gland is underactive?
With hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland produces less hormones than we need. Since the thyroid hormones affect almost all metabolic processes hypothyroidism also affects your weight: In most cases, it results in weight gain.
Weight gain with hypothyroidism is caused by the deficiency of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4, which slows protein synthesis. In addition, the carbohydrate metabolism is not sufficiently stimulated and lipolysis (the breakdown of fats) is no longer supported. Body temperature also decreases and the effect of other hormones is negatively impacted. All this results in a lowered basal metabolism. So the entire metabolism is slowed down and the body burns fewer calories.
Thyroid hormones can affect up to 30 percent of the basal metabolism.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism
In most cases, it takes a while for hypothyroidism to be detected. The process is gradual and the symptoms are often misinterpreted. Since the thyroid hormones have an influence on so many functions, the symptoms can also occur all over the body:
- Fatigue
- Poor performance and poor concentration
- Memory impairment
- Increased sensitivity to cold
- Weight gain
Hypothyroidism diagnosis
To diagnose hypothyroidism, you should always consult a doctor. The doctor will first ask if you have any of the typical symptoms and carry out a physical examination. In particular, the doctor will look at and palpitate your throat to detect changes in the size and consistency of the thyroid gland. This can also be done with the help of an ultrasound or a tissue sample.
In addition, a blood test is quite important to assess the function of the thyroid gland. The TSH value is particularly important here. The concentration of TSH in the blood indicates how much the thyroid gland needs to be stimulated to produce enough thyroid hormones. With hypothyroidism, the TSH levels are increased and the thyroid hormones T3 and T4 are lowered. Antibodies are can also be found in the blood, which attack the thyroid tissue.
What is the best diet for hypothyroidism?
Unfortunately, if it is a question of congenital hypothyroidism (present from birth), you will not be able to achieve much through dietary changes. In such cases it is necessary to take medications to make up for the lack of thyroid hormones.However, if the diet is to blame for hypothyroidism, you should focus on the following nutrients.
Hypothyroidism and iodine
The thyroid gland needs iodine to be able to produce enough hormones. An iodine deficiency can therefore be partly responsible for the development of hypothyroidism.
Around 2 billion individuals are estimated to have an iodine deficiency worldwide. Roughly every forth person suffers from an iodine deficiency.
| Topic | Recomendation |
|---|---|
| Recommended daily amount for adults (according to NHS) | 140 µg per day |
| Dietary sources |
|
| Supplements | As with all supplements and sudden dietary changes, consult your doctor or dietitian before hand.
|
| Overdose |
|
Hypothyroidism and selenium
A lack of selenium leads to damage of thyroid tissue, as a result of which goitre can develop. Therefore, selenium is also an important nutrient to avoid hypothyroidism. Selenium is found in animal and plant foods, the content depends on the place of cultivation. An overdose can only be achieved by taking supplements or by excessive food intake.
| Topic | Recomendation |
|---|---|
| Recommended daily amount for adults (according to NHS) | 60-75 µg per day for an adult |
| Dietary sources | It is found in animal and plant-based foods, the content depends largely on the location of production.
|
| Supplements | As with all supplements and sudden dietary changes, consult your doctor or dietitian before hand.
|
| Overdose |
|
Hypothyroidism and iron
A pronounced iron deficiency also has a negative effect on the production of thyroid hormones. As a result, hypothyroidism can also occur due to insufficient iron intake.
More than 2 billion people worldwide suffer from an iron deficiency.
| Topic | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Recommended daily amount for adults (according to NHS) | 14.8 mg a day for women under 50 8.7 mg a day for men and women over 50 |
| Dietary sources | Meat is the best source iron. However, iron is found in almost every food, even if only in small quantities.
|
| Supplements | As with all supplements and sudden dietary changes, consult your doctor or dietitian before hand.
|
| Overdose | > 20 mg of is considered a high dose. |
Hypothyroidism and vitamin A
A vitamin A deficiency can cause your hypothyroidism and goiter to worsen. For this reason, you should also ensure a sufficient supply of vitamin A.
1 mg vitamin A = 6 mg beta-carotene
| Topic | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Recommended daily amount for adults (according to NHS) | 600 µg a day for women 700 µg a day for men |
| Dietary sources | Vitamin A is exclusively found in animal products. Beta-Carotene is a precursor of vitamin A and is found in plant foods.
|
| Supplements | As with all supplements and sudden dietary changes, consult your doctor or dietitian before hand.
|
| Overdose |
|
Foods to avoid with an underactive thyroid
There are some foods you are recommended to avoid or only consume in moderation. These include:
- Soy products
- Dietary supplements
- Highly concentrated plant extracts or supplements
- Cruciferous vegetables (e.g. varieties of cabbage, rocket, radishes)
A high intake of these foods in combination with a low iodine intake can promote goitre formation and have a negative effect on thyroid hormones. This is due to so-called phytates, which impair the absorption of iron. Vitamin C, on the other hand, promotes iron absorption.
Is it possible to lose weight with hypothyroidism?
With hypothyroidism, the body slows down all metabolic processes and is almost brought to a halt. Therefore, weight loss is not impossible just more complicated. As with any weight loss, it takes a lot of patience to achieve your goal in a healthy and sustainable way. In principle, the diet should be balanced and have a calorie deficit. Regular physical exercise also supports the weight loss process. In general, exercise has many positive effects on our body processes and also contributes to long-term weight management.
Can hypothyroidism be cured?
Under certain circumstances, hypothyroidism can be cured. The severity and cause of the disease play a major role. If the hypothyroidism has been caused by an unbalanced diet and is detected in time, it can be reversed in most cases with the help of iodine supplements. However, if other factors such as genes, inflammation or surgery play a role, hypothyroidism can only be controlled with the help of medication.
Conclusion
With hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland produces too few hormones, as a result of which numerous body processes are affected. The changed hormonal situation also has an effect on our metabolism, as a result of which many people often suffer from weight gain. Hypothyroidism can be either congenital (present from birth) or caused by an unbalanced diet. In some cases it is possible to cure, provided it is detected at an early stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if the thyroid gland is underactive?
The thyroid gland is the largest hormonal gland of the body. When it is underactive it produces too few thyroid hormones. As a result, numerous body processes are influenced, such as metabolism, basal metabolism, growth, development, temperature regulation, as well as brain development and function.
What foods help prevent hypothyroidism?
In order to prevent hypothyroidism, you should try to get enough iodine, selenium, iron and vitamin A from your diet and supplement if necessary. Congenital hypothyroidism can only be treated with medication.
What foods should be avoided with an underactive thyroid?
In order to prevent hypothyroidism caused by an iodine deficiency, you should refrain from eating foods containing soy, dietary supplements, highly concentrated plant extracts or supplements as well as cruciferous vegetables (e.g. cabbage varieties, rocket, radishes).
Is it possible to lose weight with hypothyroidism?
Since hypothyroidism affects the metabolism, weight loss is difficult, but not impossible. Important here are patience, a balanced diet and regular physical exercise.
