Treatment FAQ

how long does it take to lose weight after begining treatment for hypothyroidism

by Prof. Wilhelm Wyman Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago

When you start taking thyroid medication like levothyroxine, don't expect instant weight loss. The first barrier is getting the right dose of thyroid medication. Once you have reached your ideal dose, you may notice some weight loss after around three to six months of continuous use.

How long does it take to lose weight after thyroid treatment?

Jan 21, 2022 · Generally, people begin to notice weight loss about three to six months after hitting a therapeutic dose of their medication. People lose about five to ten pounds on thyroid medication or less than 10% of their body weight.

Can you lose weight with hypothyroidism?

Aug 21, 2019 · It may take a few weeks to experience the improvement. As levothyroxine takes time to cure the symptoms and maintains the weight. But symptoms should start disappearing …

How long does it take to recover from hypothyroidism?

Oct 16, 2013 · About half (52%) of the patients lost weight up to 24 months after initiation of treatment with LT4. Overall, weight loss was modest, with a mean weight loss of 8.4 + 9.7 lbs. …

How long does levothyroxine take to work for weight loss?

Answer (1 of 2): About half (52%) of the patients lost weight up to 24 months after initiation of treatment with LT4. Overall, weight loss was modest, with a mean weight loss of 8.4 + 9. 7 lbs. …

Do you lose weight once you start thyroid medication?

October 16, 2013 — Decreased thyroid function, or hypothyroidism, is commonly associated with weight gain. But contrary to popular belief, effective treatment with levothyroxine (LT4) to restore normal thyroid hormone levels is not associated with clinically significant weight loss in most people.Oct 16, 2013

Do you lose weight after being treated for hypothyroidism?

Since much of the weight gain in hypothyroidism is accumulation in salt and water, when the hypothyroidism is treated one can expect a small (usually less than 10% of body weight) weight loss.Sep 2, 2019

Will I lose weight when I start taking levothyroxine?

In most cases, levothyroxine causes some weight loss. According to the American Thyroid Association, when this medication is started, you may lose up to 10% of your weight. This weight is mainly water weight, since being hypothyroid makes you retain water. Levothyroxine is a medication to treat hypothyroidism.Sep 3, 2021

How long after starting thyroid medication will I see an improvement?

You should start to feel better a few days after you begin taking medicine. But it may take a few months for your thyroid hormone levels to get back to normal. If your levels get better, but you still have symptoms like fatigue and weight gain, your doctor may need to change your treatment.Jan 27, 2022

Why is it so hard to lose weight with hypothyroidism?

Why is it hard to lose weight with hypothyroidism? Hypothyroidism can slow your metabolism and cause fatigue, so you don't burn calories efficiently and you're less able or motivated to exercise. This can make it harder to get rid of unwanted fat.Apr 1, 2022

Is my thyroid meds making me fat?

Following treatment for hyperthyroidism, patients will observe a steady weight gain despite not changes in their eating or exercise. First, the weight will approach their normal level but then many continue experience further weight gain, reaching overweight or even obesity.Jun 1, 2020

Can thyroid cause belly fat?

Weight gain

Even mild cases of hypothyroidism may increase the risk of weight gain and obesity. People with the condition often report having a puffy face as well as excess weight around the stomach or other areas of the body.
Feb 25, 2019

How do you know if thyroid medicine is working?

You and your doctor should set up a plan to test and measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) every few weeks after beginning medication. This is the best way to know whether it is working.

What is the American Thyroid Association?

The American Thyroid Association (ATA) is the leading worldwide organization dedicated to the advancement, understanding, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders and thyroid cancer. ATA is an international individual membership organization with over 1,700 members from 43 countries around the world.

When was the 2013 American Thyroid Association meeting held?

The study that led to this surprising finding will be presented by researchers from Boston University Medical Center at the 83rd Annual Meeting of the American Thyroid Association, October 16-20, 2013, in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

How long does it take for thyroid to stabilize?

Generally, weight loss of a pound a week is achievable and sustainable."" Because of the very long half-life of the hormone, it will take a least three to four weeks for the blood levels of thyroid hormone to stabilize. Then you'll probably have a TSH test every four to eight weeks, and the readings from those tests will be used to determine your precise hypothyroidism treatment. Go to my Profile and you can find all about hypothyroidism material there...

Why is my motivation lagging after thyroid surgery?

Hope is not lost! Your motivation may be lagging because the weight is not melting off even while taking thyroid hormone replacement. There are proactive steps you can take to address issues keeping you from meeting your goals.

What is the thyroid gland?

It secretes several hormones, primarily T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), that act on every cell throughout the body to regulate metabolism, growth and development, and body temperature. These hormones also affect breathing, heart and nervous system functions, muscle strength, menstrual cycles, weight and cholesterol levels.

Can you sit still for a whole day?

It can be so hard to sit still for a whole day when you think you need to go burn off the pizza you had for lunch. If it’s your rest day though, don’t run to the gym, don’t do a cardio workout, let your body rest.

Can you lose weight with hypothyroidism?

You will lose weight! But this is not the case for many people with hypothyroidism. It can be downright difficult to lose weight even if your hypothyroidism is well controlled. Get a complete physical exam.

Does thyroid cause weight loss?

Additional tips for weight loss. It is well-known that thyroid hormones play an essential role in regulating our metabolism. People with hypothyroidism have high levels of TSH and low levels of T3 and T4. This imbalance can cause an increase in weight, which is due in part to an increase in fluid retention.

Why do people with hypothyroidism gain weight?

People with hypothyroidism have high levels of TSH and low levels of T3 and T4. This imbalance can cause an increase in weight, which is due in part to an increase in fluid retention. Weight gain is one of the main reasons people initially request to have their thyroid function tested .

What is the role of thyroid hormones in the body?

The thyroid is responsible for regulating your metabolism. Thyroid hormones control blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and energy production. People with hypothyroidism have low thyroid hormone levels, which causes your metabolism to slow down.

Why does my metabolism slow down?

People with hypothyroidism have low thyroid hormone levels, which causes your metabolism to slow down. It is common for people with a slower metabolic rate to gain weight or struggle to maintain a healthy weight. When thyroid hormones are low, your body has a more challenging time using energy from fat stores.

Why do people with hypothyroidism have cold intolerance?

Therefore, people notice an increase in body fat. Interestingly, the difficulty with using fat stores for energy is also one reason why people with hypothyroidism struggle with cold intolerance.

How much weight can you gain with hypothyroidism?

However, the American Thyroid Association has found that only 5-10 pounds of excess weight can be credited to hypothyroidism. Furthermore, weight gain in hypothyroidism is usually due to an excess of salt and water in the body as opposed to fat accumulation.

Can you lose weight with hypothyroidism?

Yes, it is possible to lose weight when you have hypothyroidism, but only if you’re willing to change up your die t. Avoid inflammatory foods for weight loss when you have an underactive thyroid, contributing to weight gain. Keep your balanced diet gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free.

Does hypothyroidism cause weight gain?

Unfortunately, hypothyroidism causes weight gain. Hypothyroidism is a medical condition caused by an underactive thyroid, a gland in your neck that secretes necessary hormones. (Hyper-thyroidism means an over- active thyroid.) Weight gain is often one of the first signs that the endocrine system is experiencing issues.

Is sugar bad for hypothyroidism?

This one ingredient is linked to so many different wellness issues. Avoid sugar at all costs in your hypothyroidism diet plan for weight loss.

What is the best diet for hypothyroidism?

While the AIP diet allows small amounts of honey, maple syrup, and fruits, the most prevalent foods in this hypothyroidism diet are proteins and vegetables. Here are your new favorite foods for losing weight with hypothyroidism: Lean proteins: Beef.

Can hypothyroidism cause stiffness?

Weak, Achy, or Stiff Muscles and Joints. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weak and aching muscles, joint pain and stiffness, and potentially even carpal tunnel syndrome. This can make it feel even harder to exercise. Ask anyone with chronic joint pain: Staying active is a massive struggle.

Can hypothyroidism make you feel weak?

Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weak and aching muscles, joint pain and stiffness, and potentially even carpal tunnel syndrome. This can make it feel even harder to exercise. Ask anyone with chronic joint pain: Staying active is a massive struggle.

Can you have thyroid problems with Hashimoto's disease?

You may have thyroid issues caused by Hashimoto’s disease or even secondary hypothyroidism. Secondary hypothyroidism is caused by a failure of the pituitary gland. But don’t fret! If you have trouble with increasing body weight, we can take you through simple guidelines on how to lose weight with hypothyroidism.

What is the best way to lose weight with hypothyroidism?

Healthy eating is a big part of your weight management plan. "Getting proper nutrition supports weight loss and also helps with heart health, blood sugar concerns, and cholesterol problems that often are part of hypothyroidism," Harris says. Eat lean proteins.

What happens when the amount of thyroid hormone goes down?

When the amount of thyroid hormone your body makes goes down, the number on your scale sometimes goes up. But there are lots of ways you can take control of your weight.

How to help with hypothyroidism?

"Getting proper nutrition supports weight loss and also helps with heart health, blood sugar concerns, and cholesterol problems that often are part of hypothyroidism," Harris says. Eat lean proteins. Stick to one serving of fish, poultry, eggs, or beans for each meal. ...

How to reduce stress and weight loss?

Pay attention to things that cause you stress and try to avoid them. Get enough sleep. Getting shut-eye can pack a big health punch. "Sleep is the body's time to take care of repair and maintenance in the body, and it's essential for weight loss and overall health," Harris says. Diet Is Important.

Can kelp cause thyroid problems?

"There's lots of hype about high-dose iodine supplements like kelp curing hypothyroidism, but this can actually trigger more acute thyroid problems," Harris says. Above all, remember this: Slow, smart, and steady wins the race when it comes to weight loss.

How to Lose Weight with Hypothyroidism

Unexplained weight gain is a common sign of hypothyroidism, especially if you start gaining weight without making any major changes to your diet or activity level.

What Is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid gland is unable to produce the levels of hormones your body needs to effectively regulate important metabolic processes. The thyroid gland is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the front of your neck right below the larynx.

Why Does Hypothyroidism Cause Weight Gain?

Thyroid hormones regulate your metabolism and the way your body burns calories. If you have hypothyroidism, your body will produce lower levels of thyroid hormones, which will slow your metabolism and cause you to burn calories at a slower rate.

Does Everyone with Hypothyroidism Gain Weight?

Weight gain is one of many symptoms of hypothyroidism, which means not everyone with this thyroid condition will gain weight.

Can Hypothyroidism Medication Cause Weight Gain?

The standard treatment for hypothyroidism is the daily use of a medication called levothyroxine. Levothyroxine is a synthetic thyroid hormone that can boost your levels of this hormone to reduce symptoms of hypothyroidism, including weight gain.

Can You Lose Weight If You Have Hypothyroidism?

It’s completely possible to lose weight if you have hypothyroidism, especially if you stick to your treatment regimen as directed and consult with your doctor regularly about any side effects or continued symptoms of hypothyroidism.

How to Lose Weight When You Have Hypothyroidism

You can take several steps to lose weight when you have hypothyroidism.

How long does it take for thyroid medication to work?

About 4-6 weeks. This means that if you make any change to your thyroid medication dose (OR changes to your thyroid supplements !) you won't see any changes manifest in your body for around 4 to 6 weeks. Imagine that you've felt poorly for the last 6 months and you finally get put on thyroid medication.

Does low thyroid cause weight gain?

Weight gain is probably the most common and most frustrating symptom associated with low thyroid function, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, hypothyroidism, thyroidectomy, and RAI . There is no disputing the fact that low thyroid LEADS to weight gain .

Does levothyroxine help with weight loss?

It turns out that while levothyroxine is certainly NOT a weight loss medication (by any stretch of the imagination), it can potentially help you lose weight but only if it is used correctly. This is what we are going to talk about today... Why thyroid patients taking levothyroxine don't lose weight.

Is levothyroxine good for thyroid?

So while levothyroxine certainly isn' t the best thyroid medication around (we will talk about some better alternatives later), it is still definitely an option that can be used to help rev up your metabolism and help your body get into weight loss mode.

Can you start levothyroxine the first time?

This is why. And to complicate matters further, you have to realize that most people don't get put on the right dose of thyroid medication the first time. When you start on levothyroxine you are just given a basic starting dose.

How long does it take to adjust levothyroxine?

When you start on levothyroxine you are just given a basic starting dose. This dose may be too high or it may be too low (which is more common) but you won't know for 4-6 weeks. It will then take at least another 3-4 rounds of adjusting your dose before you get on the right dose.

Can levothyroxine get into your body?

Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, gluten intolerance, SIBO/SIFO (3), and acid reflux can all interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine. It could very well be that levothyroxine is the right medication for you and that you are taking the right dose but it can't get into your body because of your gut.

How long does it take to lose weight after taking thyroid medication?

If you are one of the lucky few people who will lose weight after starting your medication then it will most likely occur slowly and over a period of 3 to 6 months.

How long does it take for thyroid medication to kick in?

The short answer to your question is that it takes around 6 weeks for thyroid medication to kick in and for you to start feeling better. The long answer is that it can be shorter than that or even longer depending on several factors. Learn more about what factors influence how quickly you will feel better, what things can be sabotaging your ...

How to wait for thyroid medication?

Things to consider when it comes to waiting for your thyroid medication include: #1. Your starting dose. Generally, the higher your starting dose the quicker you will start to feel better. That doesn't mean you should jump to high dose, however, as higher doses may cause symptoms of excess thyroid hormone. #2.

Does thyroid medication make you feel better?

No amount of thyroid medication is going to make you feel better if your diet is not clean, if you are not sleeping at night, if you don't exercise, and if you are stressed out of your mind.

Can you take thyroid medication with food in your stomach?

Whether or not you listened to them is a different story! Taking your medication with food in your stomach may limit the amount of thyroid hormone your body can absorb (3). So, even if you are taking the right medication, at the right time, in the right dose, it's still possible that it's not getting into your body.

How many dose adjustments do you need for thyroid?

In the vast majority of thyroid patients, it takes at least 2-5 dose adjustments before you find what works well for your body.

How long does it take to get thyroid tested?

And, because you shouldn't check your thyroid labs sooner than 6 weeks, it can take several months for you to fine-tune your dose. The good news is that you don't have to get your dose to the perfect range for you to start feeling better, however.

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