Weight loss and Hypothyroidism

[Jeandon]

Hi first time posting only just heard about this site. I have hypothyroidism and cannot lose weight. I eat healthily and I go to at least 4 exercise classes a week sometimes more if I’m not busy. I am a foster carer so quite active. I have arthritis in my knees and have already had one knee replaced. I have asked the doctors for help with weight but they say not to worry as I’m healthy but then they say lose weight for arthritis, one gp gave me those fat binding pills. Are there any special dietary requirements for hypothyroidism. I am 60 years old and 5 feet 2 inches and weigh 12 stones 11pounds.

I have to mention that I don’t gain weight either even on holidays. Any suggestions or advice welcome. TIA

[SeasideSusie Remembering]

Jeandon Generally, with hypothyroidism, you can't lose weight unless you are optimally medicated.

Can you post your latest thyroid tests, with their reference ranges, so that we can see where your levels lie. Ideally you need TSH, FT4 and FT3. It's FT3 which is most important because if you have too little T3 then you're not going to lose weight, and exercising depletes T3 anyway. If I were you I would hold back on the exercise for now, maybe do something more gentle like swimming, yoga, walking.

If you don't have your results, pop into your surgery and ask at reception for a print out. It's our legal right in the UK to have them. Don't accept them verbally or hand written, mistakes can be made, so ask for a print out.