Obesity/Hypothyroid?

Question
Francine
I hope you can shed a little light on my very frustrating condition.
I am 50.
For the last few years I have been accumulating the symptoms of hypothyroidism and now I have practially all of them.
The most annoying one is my increased weight which I carry around my abdomen.I am 5'8", 250 pounds.
This is in spite of a low calorie (1500 average a day)/low fat diet and a daily 45 minute run.
My abdomen is not really fat, it is distended.
I saw my family physician in July, and convinced I am hypo, I asked to be put on medication. He put me on a trial dose of Synthroid, although he wasnt convinced I was hypo.
After being on the medication for a while he called me and left a message to say my blood tests indicated my TSH levels were high, but that could be a result of the medication.
I finished the trial dose and got no relief.
My wife, a nurse, has been monitoring my health and takes regular blood pressure readings.
I have been high normal for the last couple years but lately my BP readings have gone into the high range.
This prompted me to schedule another appointment with my doctor.
If I am not hypothyroid then what IS wrong? How can I eat less and be more active than my wife but weigh so much more than my wife? She and my close friends know its true when I say I eat like a bird and exercise, but to look at me you would never know!
Thanks!  

Answer
Hello.
There is a temperature test you can take to check your thyroid. It is a process of taking your temperature reading before getting out of bed in the morning. If I recall, if it is below 97.6, that means it is low. Please research online for the complete instructions. Most people are hypothyroid. Caffeine can lower thyroid function. Chlorinated water can lower thyroid function. Synthroid is the typical medication for this condition, however, many people share with me that it seems to "not work". Many people have shared with me the success of Raw Armour Thyroid supplement. It is dosed differently. Please research that supplement and ask your doctor if you can try that one. As far as your low calorie intake.... it is not just about the calories...but what kind of calories you are intaking. It could be 1500 calories of chocolate. Look at what you are eating to see if there is anything that will promote weight loss in  your selections. The 45 minute run is commendable, but research shows that a 45 minute brisk walk is adequate for health and wellness if done about 3 times a week. Are you insulin resistant? That is metabolic condition that typically includes high blood pressure, diabetes, and high triglycerides. Eating every 2-3 hours can help the insulin in the body release at a more even level throughout the day. Are you adding some weights or resistance to your exercise program. That can increase the potential for more weight loss. Keep your sodium intake at a minimum to reduce high blood pressure. We don't need more than about 1000mg a day, yet most people consume about 4000-6000mg/day. You are on the right track in your discovery process. Your wife is a nurse and can be a great assist for you in your wellness quest. Keep up the good work.

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