30 weight gain on 1,000 calorie diet after starting on synthroid

[Norma Jean222]

Two years ago, I was working with a nutritionist and following  an excellent weight loss program.  I had successfully lost almost 50 lbs before being diagnosed with thyroid cancer.  I underwent treatment and started taking synthroid.  I am very discouraged and concerned as I am gaining weight every week.  I have gained 30 pounds since November.    My daily diet consists of 1,000-1200 calories, 6 cups fresh or frozen vegetables,  all 100% whole grain, 3 small meals and 2 snacks which include 8 ounces of fat free plain yogurt and a small piece of fruit, if hungry. I consume 30 grams of fiber, less than 20 grams of fat, less than 15 mg sodium.  I eat about  2-3  ounces of lean meat at each meal, absolutely no red meat, cheese, processed meat or eggs.  I never consume any alcohol.  I never eat any sugar or refined white flour.  And I exercise every day.  I joined curves and go 3 days a week.  On the other days I walk for 45 minutes.  My doctor does not hear me.  He suggests that I am eating too much.  I can not eat less and get adequate nutrition.   He thinks I am cheating and suggests I eat half my portions.  He also suggests I consider gastric bypass surgery.   I am eating less than I was eating last year when I had successfully lost 50 lbs.   My endocrinologist says that my 30 lb weight gain since November is due to menopause and is in no way related to my thyroid cancer or the synthroid.   I honestly do not know where to turn.

[momontheedge]

A related discussion, help with weight gain was started.

[neicy777]

A related discussion, weight gain after thyroid surgery was started.

[SandyAnn]

I have been having the same difficulties...I have gained about 30 pounds also and have been begging my doctors to do something to help me. My doctor said that I am not considered obese (but definatley overweight) and I can not be precribed anything to help.  I was told just to diet and exercise which is what I have been doing (i also had a nutritionalist and a trainer at one point).  Just hang in there and keep doing what you are doing.  I was really down a few weeks ago and really understand where you are coming from.  Just keep talking about it and know that you are not alone. I know it really sucks but just keep trying.

[christine01]

Synthroid does not cause the weight gain, being hypothyroid causes the weight gain. It is extremely hard to lose weight when you have a thyroid condition, even on diets, plus our age has a lot to do with it. Thyroid issues effect your metabolism, thus causing a difficult time losing weight. Just keep doing what your doing and if you feel the need see a new doctor. You might want to consider seeing a nutristionist again. I gained over 50 lbs when my thyroid first started causing problems and had no idea why. I am now back to my original weight, but that is due to acid reflux disease, but most pateints like yourself struggle with losing weight no matter what they do.

[wheeler]

Find a different primary care physician and a new Endo.  You're doing everything you can and they should be too.  If they won't listen and won't help, they aren't worth your time or your hard earned cash.  Sounds to me like you need your dosage increased.