Using Thyroid Hormones for Weight Loss

     Many women who are concerned about their weight often seek simple solutions for achieving their goals. However, unfortunately, there are no simple solutions to weight loss. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration strongly cautions women to be suspicious of aids that make outrageous claims. They warn, "It is important for consumers to be wary of claims that sound too good to be true. When it comes to schemes, consumers should be particularly skeptical of claims containing words and phrases like: easy, effortless, guaranteed, miraculous, magical, breakthrough, new discovery, mysterious, exotic, secret, exclusive, ancient." Similarly, women should be aware of any unbelievable claims made by manufacturers of thyroid hormones for the purpose.

The Theory Behind Using Thyroid Hormones for Weight Loss

The thyroid hormone is closely associated with metabolism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid produces an excess of the thyroid hormone. This excess amount of hormone increases metabolism and may result. Conversely, hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid is under-active and produces a deficient amount of the thyroid hormone. Modest weight gain of 5-10 pounds may occur in this hormonal state.

It is the condition of hyperthyroidism which is of the most interest to women who are interested in losing weight through the use of thyroid hormone. There have been several studies which indicated the use of the thyroid hormone resulted in more than when the hormone was not used. In general, more severe cases of hyperthyroidism can result in increased .

The Risks of Using Thyroid Hormones for Weight Loss

While studies have indicated the use of thyroid hormone in a program resulted in greater than in programs which did not use the benefit of the thyroid hormone, it is important to note there are some risks associated with the use of thyroid hormone to lose weight. Specifically, the American Thyroid Association describes these associated risks by stating, "Once the excess thyroid hormone is stopped, the excess is usually regained. Furthermore, there may be significant negative consequences from the use of thyroid hormone to help , such as the loss of muscle protein in addition to any loss of body fat. Pushing the thyroid hormone dose to cause thyroid hormone levels to be elevated is unlikely to significantly change weight and may result in other metabolic problems."

If you are investigating the use of thyroid hormones to help you achieve your goals, you should carefully consider the risks of these hormones. The use of synthetic hormones is certainly justifiable in the case of a legitimate hormonal excess or deficiency, but when they are specifically used for weight loss, it may be difficult to avoid creating additional medical problems. Also, it should be noted that it is possible to quickly regain the weight once the use of the hormone is stopped. A condition of hyperthyroidism creates a need for additional calories. Women who become used to eating to accommodate this condition may have a difficult time scaling back their eating habits once they are no longer using the thyroid hormone.

Using Thyroid Hormones under a Doctor's Care

In any endeavor you undertake, you should always seek out the assistance and guidance of your doctor. This is important for a number of reasons. First of all, you should always consult your doctor when you are attempting to lose weight to ensure you are healthy enough to begin exercising and to make changes to your diet or begin taking supplements. Additionally, your doctor can discuss the use of supplements with you and provide a great deal of insight into the benefits and risk involved with taking these supplements.

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