Intermittent fasting may affect thyroid hormone levels. However, more research is necessary for scientists to understand how intermittent fasting may benefit or harm people with hypothyroidism.
In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. This can lead to a slower metabolism, which may result in symptoms such as weight gain and fatigue.
Intermittent fasting involves abstaining from eating for regular periods and eating only during scheduled times. Some studies suggest that the benefits of eating this way may include anti-inflammatory effects and fat loss. However, intermittent fasting may not be suitable or beneficial for everyone.
This article discusses whether fasting is safe for people with hypothyroidism and the potential benefits of eating this way.
Research on intermittent fasting and thyroid function has produced mixed results.
The pituitary gland produces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which regulates the thyroid gland’s production of two thyroid hormones, triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones regulate the metabolism and affect various bodily functions.
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too few of these hormones. Symptoms can include weight gain, weakness, fatigue, and sleep difficulties.
One
In a
Other research suggests that fasting may cause T3 levels to decrease by as much as 55% within 24 hours. T3 levels may remain lower than usual in people who practice short or long term intermittent fasting.
Although some studies suggest fasting may not impact TSH levels or thyroid function, a 2018 study found that people with hypothyroidism required higher doses of thyroid medication after fasting for Ramadan.
More research is necessary to determine how intermittent fasting may affect thyroid functioning and how effective it is for people with hypothyroidism.
Intermittent fasting may be safe for people with hypothyroidism, although larger-scale studies are necessary.
People with hypothyroidism have low levels of thyroid hormones, and research suggests fasting may cause a further decrease, particularly in T3 levels.
While some studies suggest that fasting
What type of intermittent fasting is safest for people with hypothyroidism?
There are different types of intermittent fasting. People can fast for whole days, on alternating days, or for a set amount of hours in a day.
The safest method of intermittent fasting is typically to divide the day into 12 hours for fasting and 12 hours for eating (12/12). However, a person with hypothyroidism can discuss this with a health professional before making big changes to their diet or eating patterns.
There are several potential benefits of intermittent fasting. These include:
- a decrease in inflammation
- improvements in glucose regulation
- improvements in insulin resistance
- fat and weight loss
- a reduced risk of heart health complications
A person with hypothyroidism may want to speak with their doctor before fasting, especially if they take thyroid medication.
They may also find the following tips helpful:
- Eat nutritious foods: Eating a diet that includes a variety of whole foods, fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, and proteins between fasting can help provide the right amount of nutrients.
- Start slowly and adjust: It may be helpful to begin with a 12/12 fasting schedule and adjust it as necessary. A person can gradually increase or reduce their fasting period, depending on how their body responds.
- Time medication: If a person is taking medication for hypothyroidism, they may have to time their fasting and eating periods accordingly. For example, people must take Levothyroxine, a medication for hypothyroidism, on an
empty stomach . - Drink plenty of water: A person should ensure that they remain hydrated during fasting.
- Track symptoms: If a person’s hypothyroidism symptoms worsen, they may want to stop intermittent fasting.
A person should take levothyroxine on an empty stomach so that their body can absorb it properly. This means they should take the medication at least 30 to 60 minutes before their first meal of the day, or at least three to four hours after their last meal of the day.
Some people with hypothyroidism have a deficiency of iodine, a mineral that converts TSH to T3 and T4.
Other nutrients that may help improve thyroid functioning include selenium and zinc.
Intermittent fasting may lead to nutrient deficiencies if a person does not include enough of these and other nutrients in their diet, which may worsen thyroid symptoms.
A person may want to consult a healthcare professional to check their thyroid levels before and after they begin fasting.
If a person has hypothyroidism, a doctor will typically test a person’s thyroid levels once a year. However, if a person requires medication adjustments or experiences changes in their symptoms, they may require more frequent tests.
The following approaches may help a person with hypothyroidism lose weight:
- taking thyroid medication, such as levothyroxine
- treating comorbid conditions, such as insulin resistance
- eating a nutritious diet
- avoiding or limiting saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and processed foods
- monitoring calorie intake
- getting
enough physical activity managing stress - getting enough good-quality sleep
A person may want to contact a doctor if they have hypothyroidism and cannot lose weight with diet and exercise. A doctor can advise them on whether intermittent fasting or alternative weight loss options may be safe and effective.
If a person practices intermittent fasting and their hypothyroidism symptoms worsen, they may want to speak with their doctor or have their thyroid levels checked.
Intermittent fasting may affect thyroid hormones. However, more research is necessary to understand its safety and efficacy in people with hypothyroidism.
Some research suggests fasting may reduce thyroid hormone levels, which might affect thyroid function. Other studies suggest intermittent fasting is unlikely to affect thyroid function.
A person with hypothyroidism may want to speak with a healthcare professional before changing their diet or eating patterns.