How to Lose Weight While on Amitriptyline

Amitriptyline is a tricylic prescription drug used for the treatment of depression and anxiety. A wide range of side effects are associated with amitriptyline from headaches to constipation. A common side effect is weight gain. Weight loss revolves around burning more calories than you take in daily. Make adjustments to your eating habits and engage in regular physical activity to encourage weight loss while taking amitriptyline.

Follow instructions for taking amitriptyline according to your doctor’s recommendations. Don’t alter your dosage in an attempt to lose weight.

Lift weights three per week to help increase lean muscle mass, boost metabolism and burn calories, facilitating weight loss. Work opposing muscle groups on the same day, like back and chest on Mondays, arms and abs on Wednesdays, and legs and butt on Fridays. Include compound exercises that work several muscles at the same time, like lunges, triceps dips, pushups and pullups. Perform each exercise for three sets of 15 repetitions.

Decrease your calorie intake to aid weight loss. Monitor your calories using a food journal or online weight management tool. Track your calories for five days to see the average number you consume. Subtract 500 to 750 from your average to calculate the number of calories you need to lose about 1 to 2 lbs. per week.

Cut back on sodium to shed extra pounds caused by water retention. Season your foods with spices, herbs and vegetables instead of the salt shaker. Avoid high-sodium processed foods like boxed meals and frozen dinners.

Adopt healthy eating habits. Fill up on foods in their natural form, such as chicken, fish, lean steak, turkey, vegetables, whole grain pastas and breads, healthy fats like avocado and nuts, fruits, and low-fat dairy products, which have a high nutritional value and help you feel fuller longer. Stay away from foods high in refined sugars or trans fats like cookies, cakes or fried foods, which have very little nutrients.

Warnings

Consult your physician prior to starting a new weight loss program while taking amitriptyline.