weight gain

I have been on LEVOTHYROXINE for years.  No one seems to be listening:  I've tried a multitude of diets, I exercise a lot, all told I exercise about 2 hours a day, 4-5 days a week and golf once a week.  We eat so healthy and do all the right things.  I keep gaining, and gaining and finally this week:  This is the most I have ever weighed in my entire life and I can not lose a pound.  This is so depressing...none of my clothes fit....I lost 35 pounds several yeras ago and it all came back  and plus and I haven't changed much about my life except getting rid of stress.  The dr. isn't listening--he just says to keep dieting--it isn't working....Ideas???

[Barb135]

Have you only been on the thyroid medication for a month?  That's not even long enough for it to reach full potential in your blood.  It takes 4-6 weeks to reach full potential and chances are you're only on a starter dose and will need to be increased.  

I suggest that you get the same tests I mentioned above to make sure your thyroid hormones are adequate -- it doesn't sound like they are anywhere close.  

Do understand, though that just starting on thyroid med may not help you lose weight.  Many of us have to work very hard at it.

How much exercise are you getting?  How many calories/day are you eating?  How are you cooking your veggies and chicken?  

[tanap23]

I feel like I am in the same boat!! I had a hyperactive thyroid and was way over weight! So I took radioactive iodine and started my levothyroxine...now I am getting bigger!!! I exercise, and eat healthy (lots of veggies and chicken) but after a month I only lost 2lbs...I know it is better then nothing, but when you are over 300lbs it is a tiny step! Let me know if you find something that works

[Barb135]

I second the thought that your thyroid levels are not adequate.  I'd add that you should make sure to get tested for FREE T3 and FREE T4, which are not the same as just T3 and T4...  Be sure to specify FREE for each of them.

Also agree that PCOS and insulin resistance can prevent weight gain.  

Not sure what you consider eating so healthy and doing the right things are.

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
In all probability your thyroid control is not good. So, test for TSH, T3 and T4. Other than this, in females, polycystic ovary too can cause weight gain. Diabetes and insulin resistance should be tested for. Anemia can cause weight gain through water retention. Please consult your doctor regarding this. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.