Hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid) is more common in women than men and is usually discovered between the ages of 40 and 50. Under-active thyroids are usually related to an enlargement of the thyroid gland where the body’s immune system produces antibodies that attack the thyroid gland, reducing hormone secretion. Childbirth and/or stress can be triggers.
A lack of thyroid hormones causes a slowdown in the metabolism, weight gain, tiredness, depression, dry skin, and constipation. People who have been severely overweight for some time often wonder if they might indeed have a thyroid problem. There seems to be a common misconception that such hormone disorders are rife – but in reality, thyroid diseases are in fact highly uncommon. Indeed, less than a fraction of 1% of all overweight people have a disorder of the thyroid gland.
If you do find that you have a thyroid condition it is all the more reason for taking good care of yourself. You can lead a normal life as long as you keep in contact with your doctor and eat healthily and take exercise. You can do this by sending off for my Healthy Eating Guide at guidean@naturalhealthlines.com. I have met several women who had an under-active thyroid and although most succeeded in losing weight, their weight loss was slower than normal.
If you think you have a thyroid condition, the first step is to see your doctor. Thyroid function can change quite quickly so regular checking is very important. Then with your doctor’s support you can start to lose weight. However it is also an important point to remember that treatment with thyroxin does not result in an immediate recovery. It can take symptoms up to nine months to improve, so be patient and you will feel better and lose the weight in time.
Try these weight loss tips
Physical activity is especially important if you suffer from hypothyroidism. A daily workout is essential and you may like to kick start your metabolism with my mini morning workout by sending to: minian@naturalhealthlines.com for a free copy.
Foods to eat less of as they may interfere with iodine uptake are: cabbage, kale, broccoli, mustard, linseed, sweet potato, peanuts, and soy products, so keep these to a minimum. You don’t need to cut them out completely.
Avoid caffeine drinks like coffee, cola; avoid stimulants like smoking and alcohol as these all affect the thyroid function.
When your condition has been treated you will notice that you have far more energy and then you can move on to tackle weight loss.
 

 
Eggplant Casserole
Serves 4
Ingredients
1 Eggplant, large
Large can of Tomatoes
1 Green pepper, diced
2 tbsp. Olive oil
1/2 Clove garlic, finely minced        
Pepper, freshly ground
1 Onion, med, sliced
1 1/2 tsp. Salt
 

Pare and dice eggplant. Heat oil in frying pan; add onion, green pepper, and eggplant. Stir over low heat until eggplant is soft. Add can of tomatoes and juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer a few minutes. At this point you can add basil, chives, parsley, tarragon or oregano to taste. Turn into casserole dish and bake at 325º C degrees for 40 minutes. Casserole may be served hot or cold.
 

I need to lose weight very quickly as I am getting married in 2 months and I want to look my best for my bride. I want to eat as little as possible to lose weight fast. Can you tell me the best way to do this?
— Hamoudi
 
I’ve helped many people lose weight and one thing I’ve learned is that starvation doesn’t work. Number one, it makes you very cranky, which is not good for anyone who is getting married. Number two, starvation signals your body to conserve energy by slowing down your metabolism and you feel tired. So you burn fat at a slower rate than when you are eating normally! If you really want to lose weight, think lifestyle changes as advocated in the act rim weight loss plan. Eat smaller meals, healthy foods and do not eat high-fat, high-calorie processed meals or junk food; and drink plenty of water. The key is not to be impatient. Think slow, steady change. Exercise will increase your metabolism so you burn fat more efficiently and make yourself feel energetic and healthy. You also want to look healthy and happy at your wedding. For a copy of my healthy eating plan e-mail me at: guidean@naturalhelthlines.com
— Alva