April 24, 2009, Newsletter Issue #151: Thyroid and Weight Loss in Women

Tip of the Week

Most of us know a woman who eats a healthy diet, exercises regularly, but still seems to be carrying a few excess pounds. What is the reason for this? Is she secretly eating high fat or high calorie foods? Probably not. The more likely explanation is that she is suffering from hypothyroidism, which, according to studies, is one of the most frequently missed diagnoses in modern medicine. Since this disease affects women eight times more frequently than men, it can often be the the culprit responsible for stalling the progress of even the best women's weight loss program.

Symptoms of Hypothyroid
Unexpected and unexplained weight gainDepressionLow EnergyMemory LossCold HandsAlthough doctors are unsure of why there seems to be a sudden epidemic of women suffering from hypothyroidism, there are some theories. It is quite possible that products such as aspartame, found in diet sodas, and soy, which is often suggested as a low-fat alternative to dairy products might contain compounds that suppress normal thyroid functioning. Although a test at the doctors office is you best bet for diagnosing hypothyroidism, there is a simple home test you can try. When you wake up each morning, take you underarm temperature. If it is consistently lower than 97.8, and you are experiencing symptoms, consult your physician.

What Can be Done?
Get 30 minutes of sunshine on a daily basis. Sunlight is said to improve thyroid function.Get enough iodine by eating dark green, leafy vegetablesAsk you doctor to prescribe a thyroid medication

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