SPONSORED: The little butterfly-shaped gland in your neck could be the reason you’re battling on your weight loss journey – here’s what to look out for.
So, what is a thyroid gland and what does it do?
Located in the front part of your neck, the thyroid produces hormones that control your metabolism and your weight. It produces two thyroid hormones: T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). These hormones affect your weight and mood, your metabolism and other body systems.
When these hormones are out of balance or the thyroid is not active enough, it is known as hypothyroidism. This is when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to support the optimal functioning of the different systems in your body.
This can result in several symptoms that may seem vague and unrelated, such as:
Other less common symptoms include:
How does hypothyroidism affect your metabolism?
People with an underactive thyroid don’t create enough thyroid hormones, which means that they have a slower metabolism and burn fewer calories at rest. This causes many of the symptoms listed above. Research shows that aerobic exercise can help boost your thyroid hormone levels. Additionally, eating more protein may help boost your metabolism.
What you can do:
Do a thyroid self-exam
Stand in front of a mirror and look for an enlarged thyroid gland. Move your head back, take a sip of water, and as you swallow, examine your neck: below where the Adam's apple would be, and above the collarbone. Look for lumps, then repeat the process a few times. If you see a lump, you need to visit your GP as soon as possible.
Get tested
If you think you have symptoms pointing to a thyroid problem, it’s best to ask your GP if you should be tested.
Make lifestyle changes to support thyroid health and weight loss:
1. Cut out simple carbs and sugars
2. Eat more anti-inflammatory foods
3. Stick to small, frequent meals
4. Keep a food diary
Keeping track of your daily food intake is useful if you’re trying to stick to a balanced diet.
5. Move your body
It’s important to make exercise part of your lifestyle. It will help burn calories, it’s great for your health and it helps keep your weight in check.
6. Take the right supplements
Herbex Thyroid Active Tablets contain Fucus vesiculosis (bladderwrack), Withania somnifera (winter cherry/ashwagandha) and added iodine and selenium, which may help promote normal thyroid hormone production.
This information is supplied by a third-party client. Before using new products or medicines, always speak to your doctor first to find out if they could work for you.
