You can't change the fact that you have thyroid disease, but you can work with your doctor to control your thyroid levels, keeping them in a normal range for you.
You can reduce the amount of fat in your diet. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends limiting the amount to 30% of your total calorie intake. That is about 60 grams of fat in a 2000-calorie diet. Most women need fewer calories per day than that.
If you smoke, ask your doctor about ways to help you quit. If you don't smoke, avoid second hand smoke.
Control high blood pressure. Thyroid disease can sometimes increase your blood pressure. Usually, it returns to normal levels when your thyroid is regulated. If it doesn't, it may need to be controlled with medication.
Get up and move! Often when thyroid levels are too high or too low, moving takes great effort. But, it's worth it. Even 10 to 15 minutes of walking a day can make a difference. Park in the farthest parking space and walk. Take the stairs one flight up instead of the elevator. Turn off the TV and do something.
Maintain a healthy weight. Thyroid disease has long been blamed for weight gain. The truth is it may only account for 10 to 20 pounds and increasing thyroid levels does not result in weight loss. Diet and exercise are still the best methods to control weight gain. Avoid fad diets. Remember, to make it work, it has to be a lifestyle change. It takes time and effort to make new habits.
Take your medication as prescribed by your doctor. If you think it needs to change, consult with him/her.
Learn to relax. Find healthy ways to deal with stress. Take a walk, meditate, read, and listen to music. Find a way that works for you.
Know the warning signs of heart attack and stroke and don't delay in getting help. To evaluate your risk of heart disease, take the following Heart Disease Risk.
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