QuestionI am a 41yo, active duty, Mom of a 5yo, 5'10 169lb Afro American female who had hyperthyroid after the birth of my son, had them removed, currently taking sythroid, although I wear a size 9, I still feel like my body will not lose pounds I have weighed the same since I was diagnosed, I do not gain or lose even when I feel/see the difference, is this normal? My doctors are just happy with my test results and tell me not to worry, I'm fine, but for me I want to know. I've always been a light eater and work out often, I would like to see the results on a scale. If this is normal, I will accept that, if not what can I do? Thank you for your time.
AnswerBrenda,
Chances are that when you're working out, you're losing fat and gaining muscle at the same time. Have you thought about buying a body fat scale? They are under $100 and can really provide a motivation boost.
You do need to watch, though, because common body fat scales will give you a wrong reading if you are dehydrated or bloated-it's very important to always check your body fat first thing in the morning, before eating or drinking but after going to the bathroom. You should check your body fat 3 mornings in a row, and take the average. Don't check it again for 6-8 weeks-unlike weight, body fat changes very slowly.
The other often forgotten method is the good old tape measure. Measure yourself frequently at first, so that you get in the habit of always measuring the same way on the same parts of your body. Muscle is much more compact than fat, so you could be losing inches even though you haven't lost any weight.
And finally take heart-you are at a very healthy weight, and your health is really the most important thing.
Melissa
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