Ethel
I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism over 10 years ago when I was 33. Although I take my medication as directed and my annual blood tests show that my levels are within normal range, I still experience all the symptoms such as fatigue, dry skin, cold feet and hands, constipation and inability to lose weight. Most of the symptoms I have learned to live with and I generally consume large amounts of water 10 -12 cups/day plus 3 to 4 large portions of fruit a day to ward off the constipation. I use plenty of body lotion to smooth over the dry skin which helps a little and I generally sleep 10 to 11 hours each night to minimize the tiredness. The weight thing has proven unbeatable. I have tried various exercise programs that span between 3 hours a day, 7 days a week to 45 minutes a day, 3 days a week and everything in between. I have given each program at least 5 to 6 months of trial before changing it. None worked to help me lose weight even though I eat a well balanced diet of good wholesome natural foods and rarely consume high fat foods. My physician can't explain my inability to lose weight and referred me to a dietician, but even she could not understand why I did not lose weight. I have found that I cannot even maintain my weight unless I exercise at least 4 times a week for at least 2 hours at a very intense rate. Why isn't my metabolism speeding up? What else can I do? Thanks.