The New Science of Body Types (Part 2 or 4) - The Thyroid Body Type

In part 1 (CLICK HERE to check part 1) of this four part article I took you through the history of the science of body types as well what "new science" has brought to light about the metabolic differences that make these types unique. We looked at the now-called "Lymphatic Body Type" which was called the Endomorph body type by Dr. William Sheldon.

In this article we will look at what is called the "Thyroid Body Type" (previously referred to as the Ectomorph body type) and its metabolic individuality.

Guess which is the Thyroid Body Type.

Defining the Thyroid Body Type

The Thyroid (ectomorph) body type may be considered naturally skinny if not scrawny. Thyroid types are so called because have a overactive metabolism/ thyroid and are sympathetic nervous system (SNS) dominant with either higher productions or higher sensitivity to catecholamines – like epinephrine and norepinephrine.

This profile is linked to a fast metabolic rate and a higher carbohydrate tolerance (and needs) which means they can get away with eating almost anything without worrying too much about body fat. They tend to stay within a narrow body weight range and if there is ever a weight fluctuation it’s normally is in the direction of weight loss.

They often have problems with unstable blood sugar levels, which can cause fatigue and cravings for sugar and stimulants such as caffeine, nicotine and artificial sweeteners.

Characteristics of the Thyroid Body Types

• Naturally skinny if not scrawny and sometimes frail looking

• Small boned

• Angular, projecting bones

• As far muscle is concerned they tend to be type-1 (slow-twitch) muscle fibre dominant hence why they are natural born endurance athletes.

• Find it very difficult to put on any weight (will need very high calorie intake in order to gain weight). Their type-1 muscle fibre dominance which makes them natural endurance athletes prevents them from gaining muscle easily because type-1 muscle fibres have very low growth potential

• Super fast metabolism

• Low levels of strength prior to weight training

• Tendency to be hyperactive

• Flat-chested (women)

• Noticeable cravings for sugar and/ or stimulants

Nutrition Tips for Thyroid Body Types

In this day and age being “skinny” may be deemed fashionable if not attractive which is a bonus for ectomorphs however there is difference between being “fashionably skinny” and being “scrawny”. Skinny is slim and slender whilst scrawny is bony to the point where it’s no longer deemed attractive. Due to their high levels metabolism, thyroid body types should be keep a high calorie intake in order to put on or even maintain their weights. High carbohydrate diets are recommended for this body type. A typical ballpark for this body type would be around 55% carbs in the diet, 25% protein, and 20% fat.

Skipping meals is a no- no; keep well fuelled throughout the day.

Which is the Thyroid Type?

Exercise Tips for Thyroid Body Types

When looking to maintain or put on weight, large amounts of cardiovascular exercise are counter effective. Instead thyroid types should look to keep cardiovascular sessions at a bare minimum (low to moderate intensities up to two times per week max) even if calorie intake is revved–up quite considerably. Intense weight training alongside a big caloric surplus and adequate rest will help in muscle development however it is easy for them to lose this muscle if they overtrain and/ or under eat.

--END OF PART 2