Weight Loss Advice For PCOS and Hypothyroid?

MishiMeeks

I'm 33, 5ft 5'' and weight 12st currently, but that could be a couple pounds over at the moment because of my fluctuating periods and hormones. I'm really struggling at the moment to lose weight or even focus on trying to lose weight at all, I'm stressed, I don't get any time to myself, working at home is hard because I always want chocolate, snacks etc. I try to walk 4 times a week, doing about 7-10k steps around the park.

I suffer really badly with anxiety and depression and I feel really awful about myself, chubby and lack all confidence at the moment. I'm not even looking for fast weight loss, I just lack discipline to stick to a calorie deficit or get too tired to stop myself snacking.

Anyone have any tips to keep them on track? What they can do? I struggle with exercise because of my Hypothyroidism, it causes a lot of tiredness, and the PCOS is a issue I'm continue to sort out with my doctors, but their not helping much if I'm honest.

I don't have any particular foods to cut from my diet but I can. I want to eat less meat, or red meat entirely. I only drink water, I don't like teas or coffees, or fruit juices. Breakfast is my worst time of day, I can almost always skip it until lunchtime, which I know isn't great. Night time is my worst time for wanting an extra snack.

So, just some advice on what may have worked for you if you have pcos or something.

lorib642

I have hypothyroidism but it is controlled by medication. I would see the Dr if you are still having symptoms. I don't know much about PCOS and I am sure that interferes with dieting too. If possible get a referral to a dietitian

It is okay to skip breakfast if you aren't hungry. I used to graze snacking all day. I now eat meals and don't get as hungry in between. Maybe keep some low cal snacks for evening. I like sugar free jello. They aren't low cal but I sometimes have some nuts, too.

I am sorry about the anxiety and depression. I get that too. Have you seen anyone for your mental health?. You don't have to suffer.

AnnPT77

If your hypothyroidism is still causing fatigue, I agree with Lori above: Go so back to your doctor. I can't speak for PCOS (which I don't have), but I'm severely hypothyroid. Properly treated, my hypothyroidism doesn't interfere with either exercise or weight loss.

I'm not saying it would always have zero impact for any/everyone, but simply saying that pursuing optimal treatment could improve a symptomatic case.

With respect to hypothyroidism specifically, I highly recommend reading this:

https://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/10767046/hypothyroidism-and-weight-management

It was written by an MFP-er who is himself hypothyroid, who is a scientist in the field, and who lost weight using calorie counting. It's solidly science-based, unlikely many sketchy web sites/blogs that will tell you poorly evidenced things, then often try to sell you something (diet, exercise program, book, supplements, etc.). Beware of sources that will tell you anything, to sell you something.

Even at age 59-60, I lost weight just fine with properly treated hypothyroidism. I'm also 5'5", started at 183 pounds (13 stone 1), lost to mid 120s (8-9 stone) in a bit less than a year, have maintained a healthy weight since (I'm now 65). I was diagnosed as hypothyroid in my mid-40s, and subsequently became very active, even competing athletically, by age 50.

Again, I can't speak to the effects of PCOS, though I suspect others may do so. (I've seen people here report weight loss despite PCOS.) I'm simply trying to suggest that there's hope for both weight loss and improved fitness, despite hypothyroidism.

Hugs, and best wishes, sincerely!

Deanner03

There are several studies that suggest that hypothyroidism, if properly treated, won't impact your metabolism/weight loss. If you're still having symptoms, talk to your endocrinologist.
PCOS, however, often comes with insulin resistance. There may be a benefit to limiting your carbohydrate intake because of that. Your best bet, however, would be to talk to a registered dietician or your endocrinologist for dietary advise.