revving up your metabolism

[tchgrd2]

I had my thyroid removed because of cancer and am on synthroid. I have also gone through menopause. I watch what I eat and execise most days but it is very difficult to lose weight.  All I ever read is the key to weight loss is your metabolism.  How do I increase it without a thyroid?  It is very frustrating!

[Barb135]

I have thyroid disease also and the one thing I've been told and find to be true is that when your thyroid levels are "optimal" you will be able to lose weight.  Although my levels have been in the "normal" range, they are just now getting to the point where they are "normal" for me -- in other words, what works best for MY body.  

I don't know what your thyroid levels are, but they may not be right for YOU, even if your doctor says they are "normal".  You might want to browse through the thyroid forum a bit as there are tons of questions/answers on this subject there.  

[tchgrd2]

Thanks for your reply.  I am a lifetime member of Weight Watchers and I can lose a few pounds and then nothing.  It is just so frustrating.

[Barb135]

It can get very frustrating -- I've had the weight problem since early 2007, but was only dx'd with thyroid issues in June of 2008, so my weight had a whole year's head start on the med.  I was working out like crazy and couldn't lose an ounce.  My thyroid levels are more normal now and if I work out, I *CAN* lose -- in fact, I did lose about 6 pounds, but then last weekend, we went to the Keys for our daughter's wedding and  I didn't eat and exercise right, so I've put it back on again.  

Maybe you need to change things around a bit with your food/exercise.  If you eat the same foods or do the same exercises day after day, your body/muscles become used to it and it's no longer a challenge.  You can try changing around your exercise and/or up your calorie intake for a day or so, then drop it down, etc -- that might help jump start your weight loss again, but from my experience, it's got more to do with the thyroid levels.  

[tchgrd2]

I just went to my primary care today and she wants to test my thyroid levels.  I told her how tired I am and that I am having trouble losing weight.  She said even my voice sounds tired.  I'm hoping that I get some answers from the bloodwork because I'm not scheduled to see my endo until next month.