Health Tips

Our society is incredibly image-obsessed, there’s no doubt about it. Everywhere you look there are ads for gyms, slim models in bikinis, and newfangled low-carb diet supplements. At one time or another, we’ve all (well, almost all) had to battle the bulge, even if it’s just a few pounds here and there. Today, the message is loud and clear: health professionals tell us that the obesity epidemic in this country is nearing a crisis point. We’ve been told to eat healthier, exercise more, and take responsibility for our bodies. But what about those for whom even significant lifestyle changes do not have an impact on weight?

More than five million Americans suffer from a condition known as hypothyroidism, a disease that lessens the body’s capacity to regulate metabolism. of course, eating too much does not help. But for people who have this illness, losing weight, regardless of diet or physical activity, may prove hopeless. Many with hypothyroidism actually put on a few pounds when they change their diet and physical routine for the better.

While hypothyroidism is treatable with oral medication and/or surgery, many people are unaware of the fact that they, indeed, suffer from the illness. Symptoms which are common to the disease are fatigue, weakness, weight gain (or the inability to lose weight), rough/dry skin, dry or coarse hair, hair loss, constipation, muscle cramps/aches, depression, irritability, abnormal menstrual cycles, memory loss, diminished libido and cold intolerance (pronounced inability to cope with low temperatures).

A simple blood test is all that is necessary in order to diagnose and treat this disease. Diagnosis is critical, as hypothyroidism can progress, sometimes with lethal results, if left alone. If you or someone you know has the above symptoms, you may want to contact your doctor and ask to be tested. In some cases, there are no symptoms, but the diagnosis will be made during routine blood work or testing for other conditions.

While it would be irresponsible not to watch our dietary intake, it’s important to recognize that there may be other medical factors at work with regard to obesity. Those of us who are healthy should be able to lose weight by following diet and exercise plan. If it is not possible to lose weight despite significant changes in your daily routine, you may have hypothyroidism, and you need to get tested. Treatment will help you get your life back.