Hi. This is a difficult one for me, I'm still struggling too. I assume you are hypo and there is no one simple answer. Have you come across the web site Stop the thyroid madness, they have published in book form too. There are other national support sites too which put current scientific findings in the public realm, so we can try to work out how to enable out bodies to work better. There is so much which can impact on any one person, one site says there are 300 possible symptoms, far from the simplistic view of so many medics.

From much reading I have concluded hypothyroidism reduces the metabolism, as does consistent dieting which also probably compromises one's nutrient status (vitamins and minerals as well as good fats for making hormones) increasing activity should kick start the metabolism but if one's adrenal glands are reduced in function this too can be counter productive. Much can depend on the length of time ones thyroid has been compromised or its severity. Sorry its so complicated and comes down to what is right for yourself.

I suggest you decide the meal format you prefer and try, if you are not already, to use minimal processed foods because most of these have more "chemical" or unnecessary additives than you would use were you to make the product in your own home. Added sugar is also put in foods where its not needed. Broadly speaking eliminating unnecessary chemicals stresses your systems. You could also give yourself a couple of weeks at maintenance to get used to food groups if you are not comfortable already with it. (It is possible to set your own food group levels if you wish) Weight loss will "always" be slower when hypo, half a lb a week may be as much as one can achieve once you have decided on your.

Sorry this will be of little help because its too complicated to share all in a short post.

Hello! I think there are multiple paths to healthy eating in part because we have different needs and various ways of eating can work for some of us but not for others.

A few thoughts - gluten free is not necessary, or helpful, unless you have been diagnosed with Celiac disease. Research evidence is increasingly demonstrating that a high carb, low fat diet is a problem and has contributed to the increasing rates of obesity, diabetes, and insulin resistance and the resulting devastating effects on our health. Like Fuzzipeg, I agree that avoiding/limiting processed foods that contain harmful chemicals, additives, food dyes, etc. is important. Then finding a way of eating that meets your nutritional and calorie needs, and that is sustainable for you in the long term is important. A knowledgeable, trusted doctor and/or nutritionist might be able to help you. Although, many on this site have shared less than helpful and even dangerous dietary advice from some medical professionals.

While, I've had prior success losing weight by eating a generally well-rounded diet using CICO and increasing my level of exercise, over the past year it has not worked because my thyroid is finally totally giving out. I started eating LCHF back in February and it's been a lifesaver for me. Weight has been dropping off despite the fact that I'm averaging about 500 calories more per day (about 1500-1600 calories). When I was focusing on CICO, I was gaining weight while eating about 900-1100 calories despite being 5'6" and doing some exercise most days. Plus, I was ALWAYS hungry. However, the hunger and cravings have disappeared on LCHF. Increased exercise has also helped to curb cravings. That said, I'm currently having gall bladder problems, which is new for me. It may be a coincidence that it's started after several months of LCHF eating but I don't think so. I've decreased my fat a bit and upped my carbs (from about 20 to 50 max.), while the gallbladder issues are being sorted out.

So, long story short, this is what is working for me (I've lost about 50 lbs.) but we are all different. You may have to try different ways of eating and different exercise amounts and types to find what works best for you and what you can stick with in the long term. And, if things change (as it has for me with my thyroid failure), you may need to try new strategies.

Good luck. You can do this!

Barbara

Wow - MFP is really misbehaving - deleting triple post :-(

By the way, I'm now 122 pounds and take 100mcg of levothyroxine.