Myxedema - does exercise and diet help?

It's perfectly normal to be tired when you are hypo. And if you've only been taking the Levo - I presume they've put you on Levo? - for two weeks, you can't expect any changes yet. It takes six weeks for your body to start using the the Levo - did they tell you to go back for a test in six weeks? You will probably need several increases in dose at six week intervals before you get back to your old self. Oh, and Levo (T4) is not 'medication' in the strict sense of the word, it is thyroid hormone replacment, and it really is no big deal swallowing the pill every day - it's better than the alternative!

There is not much more you can do at the moment, to help yourself, except make sure that you are well nourished - plenty of protein and fat - yes, fat - fresh fruit and veg, some carbs, and Don't skimp on the salt! Take your Levo one hour before eating or drinking anything except water, or two hours after eating; 2 hours away from other medication and suppléments; and four hours away from iron, calcium and estrogen.

However, hypos often have problems with absorption, due to low stomach acid. So, what is advisable to do is get your vit D, vit B12, folate, iron and ferritin tested. All these need to be at least mid-range for your body to be able to use the hormone you're giving it. And B12 is optimal at 1000. Once you have the results, post them on here and we'll be able to advise you on supplementing. If you Don't already, it's always a good idea to get a copy of your blood test results - with the ranges - so that you can take charge of your own health. You are legally entitled to have them.

And talking of blood tests, when you go for your next thyroid test, makes sure it's early in the morning - 8 or 9ish - Don't take your Levo for 24 hours before the test - take it after the test - and Don't eat before the test, just drink water. That way you will get the best TSH result.

As for exercise, it's really not recommended at the stage you're at. Just a little walking and some swimming, nothing strenous or you could make yourself worse. When you are optimally treated, then you can think about things like going to the gym! But Don't forget, everything you do is 'exercise' - housework, shopping, gardening - even breathing! It all uses up calories. But you Don't want to use up too many at the moment.

The only thing that has helped me - have energy, lose weight, brighten my mood, etc - is to optimise my T3 levels - not exercise, not diet, not 'happy pills' - just good old T3. Without decent levels of T3, nothing is going to be right.

Hi rosy, I wish I knew then what I know now. There a many, many things you can do especially with diet and stress relief. This man has a lot of videos on youtube but I am certain he is correct that your glands are doing what it takes for you to survive. There is nothing intrinsically wrong with the gland. It is responding correctly to what is being inflicted on it. I urge you to take a look since you may be at a crossroads.

This functional medicine doctor also shows what all is involved.

Hi rosyposy,

My own experience has been that gentle stretching exercise helps. I do Yoga and the breathing and relaxation along with gentle stretching is good for me. Others find swimming is helpful. Some people try a gluten free diet which seems to help those with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. The best thing with diet in general is to eat fresh fruit and vegetables and meat and fish, rather than precooked and instant meals. Hope you find things that will help you. Good wishes MariLiz