Does Anything Good Happen
Despite these changes, weight loss isn’t all bad news for your hormones. Some hormones improve after weight loss, doing good things for your health.
For instance, losing weight may:
- Lower estrogen, which can protect from breast cancer.
- Boost testosterone, helping to maintain muscle mass and bone density. It can also improve sex drive in all genders and increase sperm count if a person has testes and is not on androgen blockers.
- Improve insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes .
When To Seek Professional Help With Stress Eating
If stress eating has led you to start binge eating, we recommend that you seek out professional help.
According to the National Eating Disorder Association, youre likely experiencing episodes of binge eating if you experience three of the following:
- Eating much more rapidly than normal
- Eating until you feel uncomfortably full
- Eating large amounts of food when you dont feel physically hungry
- Eating alone because you feel embarrassed by how much youre eating
- Feeling disgusted with yourself, depressed, or very guilty after overeating
If thats the case, you dont have to go through this alone. Please reach out to your doctor or a mental health professional for help.
Can You Combine These Supplements
While you will want to speak to your physician about combining these supplements, as a general rule of thumb, you may be able to combine one or more of these supplements into your daily intake. For example, because pregnenolone supports DHEA, you may be able to take both of these supplements at the same time.
Recommended Reading: Where Can I Buy Estrogen Blockers
How To Deal With Stress Eating
If youd like to know how to control stress eating, you need to understand what your trigger foods are, why you stress eat, then identify alternatives.
Heres the process we walk people through in the Noom Weight program.
Pro tip: bookmark, print, or screenshot the section below and come back to it as often as you need.
How To Balance Your Hormones
At Balanced Medical Solutions, our team specializes in getting to the root cause of your condition, and if hormone imbalance is hindering your ability to lose weight, we can help.
Our treatments include bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to level out your estrogen and relieve your menopause symptoms and your weight loss frustration.
We also offer treatments to optimize your pituitary gland, which is responsible for hormone production. In particular, this treatment increases your production of human growth hormone to increase your stamina, boost your metabolism, and sharpen your focus.
If youve hit a wall in your diet and exercise routine, it might just be your hormones. and find out if hormones are keeping you from losing weight.
Read Also: How To Increase Hormones In Male Body
Reduce Exposure To Exogenous Oestrogens
Hormonal imbalances may also be affected by our exposure to exogenous oestrogens. Exogenous oestrogens are an environmental source of oestrogen that mimics the oestrogen within the body and can cause imbalances.
Examples of exogenous oestrogens include:
- Female contraceptive pills
- Hormone replacement therapy
There has also been a rising concern surrounding day to day exposure from sources within food, plastics, and other household products.
To counteract and help balance exposure to exogenous oestrogens, there are some foods that can help balance the bodys oestrogen.
Foods to help balance oestrogen include :
My blog on should women be worried about exogenous oestrogens explains more about where they are found and how to avoid them.
The Bottom Line: You Have To To Address Your Hormone Imbalances
Now you know the whys of your broken metabolism, these are reasons regular diets dont address the root cause of your weight gain. Hormones dictate what your body does with food. Talk to a doctor about fixing your hormones, and your body will slim down without any extra effort from you.
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Indicators Of Estrogen Dominance
- Long history of birth control use
- Premature puberty
- Many menopause symptoms
There is much we can do with nutrition to support and even solve your hormone issues, which will also help to heal your metabolism . Heres just a sampling of the ideas we share in Nutrition 4 Weight Loss:
- Start with your diet. The first step is to reduce sugar, processed carbohydrates and alcohol. These can all increase estrogen production. Instead, eat lots of veggies. Cruciferous veggies are especially helpful to reduce estrogen dominance. The fiber in veggies also helps to reduce estrogen dominance and promote a healthy gut. Good gut health is also necessary for optimal hormone metabolism and production.
- Fat actually helps to make hormones so you need healthy fat on board. Be sure to incorporate avocados, nuts, seeds, coconut, olives, olive oil, grass-fed butter, and coconut oil into your diet. Avoid inflammatory oils like canola, vegetable, soybean and cottonseed oil. These will not help you with optimal hormone production.
- Of course eating real food can work magic, but sometimes you may need some additional help from supplements. This is where a nutritionist would come in to prioritize what supplements can help your hormone balance.
To learn more tips and tricks for balancing your hormones supplement ideas to name one
Plus, Nutrition 4 Weight Loss comes with private one-on-one nutrition consultations to find an individual plan that works for you.
Why Imbalanced Hormones Lead To Weight Gain
When you have consistently high levels of the major hormones, cortisol and insulin, it can lead to eating more and gaining weight. And from what the research tells us, weight gain itself leads to increased levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone in the body. We tend to think that fat tissue just sits there on our bodies, but instead, its actively producing hormones , which increases the amount of circulating sex hormones. Imbalances in sex hormones can lead to gaining even more weight and stronger weight loss resistance. And this troublesome feedback loop becomes especially apparent after menopause.
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How To Balance Ghrelin Levels
If you have a sneaking suspicion your ghrelin levels are in need of some TLC, here are a couple of ways to balance them:
- Eat adequate amounts of protein. Protein helps you feel full and should be consumed with every meal. Studies show how eating protein promotes healthy ghrelin levels.
- Avoid sugar as much as possible. As you can see by now, consuming too much sugar disrupts hormonal balance, making weight loss seem an impossible feat. Be sure to read labels. If an item contains high-fructose corn syrup, dont buy it. A 2013 study published in Nutritional Diabetes shows how high-fructose corn syrup is one of the primary culprits of imbalance when it comes to hormones and weight gain.
Obesity And Sex Hormones
Body fat distribution plays an important role in the development of obesity-related conditions such as heart disease, stroke and some forms of arthritis. Fat around our abdomen is a higher risk factor for disease than fat stored on our bottom, hips and thighs. It seems that oestrogens and androgens help to decide body fat distribution. Oestrogens are sex hormones made by the ovaries in pre-menopausal women. They are responsible for prompting ovulation every menstrual cycle. Men and postmenopausal women do not produce much oestrogen in their testes or ovaries. Instead, most of their oestrogen is produced in their body fat, although at much lower amounts than what is produced in pre-menopausal ovaries. In younger men, androgens are produced at high levels in the testes. As a man gets older, these levels gradually decrease.The changes with age in the sex hormone levels of both men and women are associated with changes in body fat distribution. While women of childbearing age tend to store fat in their lower body , older men and postmenopausal women tend to increase storage of fat around their abdomen . Postmenopausal women who are taking oestrogen supplements donât accumulate fat around their abdomen. Animal studies have also shown that a lack of oestrogen leads to excessive weight gain.
Also Check: Women’s Hormone Balance For Weight Loss
How To Get Started On Balancing Hormones For Weight Loss
Will regulating my hormones help me lose weight? Balancing your hormones can help you lose weight. There are many ways to do this, including using natural remedies such as herbs and supplements. You can also use prescription medications if they are safe for you.
There are three main types of hormones that play a role in regulating your bodys metabolism and appetite. They are called the thyroid hormones because they control how quickly the thyroid gland produces excess energy .
The second type of hormone is called the adrenal hormones because they regulate the production of adrenaline and cortisol, which are chemicals that help the body respond to stress. Finally, there are the gonadal hormones because they affect sex drive and fertility. Each of these hormones plays a specific role in regulating your bodys metabolism.
In order to balance your hormones, you should first determine what imbalance might cause your weight gain. If you are experiencing low levels of estrogen, then you could try taking supplemental estrogen.
If you are experiencing high levels of testosterone, then you could try lowering your intake of foods that contain saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol. You could also eat more fiber and drink plenty of water. Also, you could try taking a supplement containing DHEA, which is a steroid hormone that helps the body produce testosterone.
What Causes Unexplained Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of a health issue, such as:
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Hormone imbalances
In people over age 65, sudden weight loss can be especially concerning. Your provider can help determine whether your significant weight loss puts your health at serious risk, as well as recommend any further testing if needed. To easily screen for colon cancer from the comfort of home, consider the Everlywell at-home colon test .
Unintentional weight loss can result from hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, which is linked with high thyroid hormone levels. Easily check your thyroid hormones from the comfort of home with the at-home Thyroid Test.
References
1. Obesity. Endocrine Society. URL. Accessed February 18, 2020.
2. Lankisch P, Gerzmann M, Gerzmann JF, Lehnick D. Unintentional weight loss: diagnosis and prognosis. The first prospective follow-up study from a secondary referral centre. J Intern Med. 2001 249:41-46. doi:10.1046/j.1365-2796.2001.00771.x
3. Elsherif Y, Alexakis C, Mendall M. Determinants of Weight Loss prior to Diagnosis in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Retrospective Observational Study. Gastroenterol Res Pract. 2014 2014:762191. doi:10.1155/2014/762191
4. Malik TF, Gnanapandithan K, Singh K. Peptic Ulcer Disease. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island : StatPearls Publishing 2020.
5. Unexplained Weight Loss. Cleveland Clinic. URL. Accessed February 18, 2020.
6. Crohn’s disease. Mayo Clinic. URL. Accessed February 18, 2020.
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Hormones Affecting Weight Loss And How To Balance Them
Here are the 11 most important hormones that can help you lose weight. Ive derived simple, science-backed tips helping you get these hormones back in check.
1. Insulin
The most important hormone when it comes to weight loss is insulin. Most people have heard of insulin and immediately associate it with diabetes.
Thats because regulating blood glucose levels is a crucial job of this hormone. After an excess of sugar molecules in the blood is harmful, the body strives to control the amount of sugar .
The fastest way to rid the blood of glucose is to transport it into the cells, where they are used as energy or stored as fat.
And it is precisely this regulation of glucose amount in the blood that insulin is responsible for at any given time.
Accordingly, insulin plays an essential role in supplying energy to cells. On the other hand, it is also our primary storage hormone.
Finally, insulin also signals fat cells to take up excess energy.
In addition, the fat-storage hormone has a so-called antilipolytic effect .
Hence, it prevents fat breakdown by enzymes and, in return, promotes fat build-up .
In short, high insulin levels prevent fat burning.
Since insulins role is to regulate blood glucose, it is only legitimate that its presence blocks energy use from fat stores.
Accordingly, when you supply an adequate amount of glucose by eating carbohydrates, insulin does a first-rate job of consuming that energy.
How to Lower Insulin Levels
2. Glucagon
How to Increase Glucagon
Your Low Testosterone Levels Are Slowing Down Your Metabolism
You are confronted with an astounding number of toxins each day, including pesticides, herbicides, genetically modified foods, and about six different synthetic hormones in meat. Toxins are lurking in face creams, prescription drugs, processed foods, your lipstick, the linings of tuna fish cans, the fire-retardant materials in couches, and even the air you breathe. The list goes on.
Many types of these toxins, such as pesticides, plastics, and industrial chemicals, behave like estrogen when absorbed in the body. Experts believe that our increasing exposure to toxins helps explain why so many girls are entering puberty earlier and why many boys exhibit feminine characteristics such as developing breasts. Xeno-estrogens, as these particular toxins are called, have been associated with an elevated risk of estrogen-driven diseases like breast and ovarian cancers and endometriosis.
HOW TO LOSE BELLY FAT
All this fake estrogen overwhelms your body’s testosteronewhich is vital for hormone balanceand contributes to estrogen overload. Testosterone contributes to muscle growth, which in turn supports metabolism. And, as we already know, estrogen overload raises insulin insensitivity. The combination adds pounds to your frame: A study from Sweden published in the journal Chemosphere showed that exposure to a particular type of pesticide called organochloride was linked to a weight gain of 9½ pounds over 50 years.
Recommended Reading: What Are Estrogen Rich Foods
Should You Speak With A Doctor Before Using These Supplements
Yes. You should absolutely speak with your primary care physician before starting any dietary supplement, particularly if you are undergoing BHRT or you are trying to lose weight for the sake of your health. Depending on your biology, your gender, and medications you may be taking, the efficacy of supplements to aid weight loss are all different. Balancing your hormones to lose weight means being cautious about the supplements you are using.
What Kathleen Zelman Mph Rd Says:
Does It Work?
Research suggests that a Mediterranean diet, similar to Turner’s, can aid weight loss. You will lose weight on the plan because it is low in calories.
But promising that it can “balance hormones,” cure a whole host of problems and diseases, restore sleep, give you glowing skin and healthier hair, and more is not based on solid, scientific evidence.
Eating a clean, natural, preferably organic diet, free of preservatives and processed foods is ideal, but it’s not practical or necessary for weight loss or good health. Nor are the tremendous amounts of supplements, including herbal and bowel cleansers.
Is It Good for Certain Conditions?
Following a Mediterranean-style, low-glycemic diet is a sensible approach to healthy eating and weight loss that could benefit most people. Reaching a healthy weight can improve many conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
The Final Word
The cocktail of supplements and the hormone theories are unfounded and not recommended. Keep in mind that many things affect your hormone levels. It’s not just about your food. To say that certain foods are “hormone hindering” is inaccurate and oversimplifies the role of nutrients in the body.
If you think you have a hormonal imbalance or would like to follow this diet, consult your doctor.
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What Causes Stress Eating
When youre chronically stressed, your body produces cortisol: also known as the stress hormone.
That can ramp up your appetite and make you crave calorie-dense foods , because your body thinks it needs fuel to fight whatever threat is causing the stress.
Thats why stress eating isnt about a lack of willpower.
Its not your fault and you absolutely have the power to change your behavior.
How To Lose Weight Successfully
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly are the two main components of achieving a healthy weight, but these arent the only factors affecting your ability to lose weight. Hormonal imbalance could be playing a role too.
Hormonal imbalance can make weight loss difficult, and carrying extra weight can increase your risk of hormonal imbalance. Unfortunately, these factors work together to make weight loss even more difficult.
Its not easy to lose weight on your own, and our team at Medical Associates of North Texas provides the support you need to achieve success. If you have extra weight to lose, we offer comprehensive health evaluations to identify things that might hinder your progress.
We can help you identify potential hormonal imbalances, as well as other health conditions that may make weight loss more challenging for you. Then, we develop a customized weight loss program that may include regular doctors appointments, meetings with our dietician, and weight loss medication.
Achieving a healthy weight is possible. Plus, dropping those extra pounds can help regulate hormones, making it easier to maintain that weight loss over time.
Hormonal imbalance can create more challenges in your quest for better health, but lasting weight loss can still be a reality. Contact our team online or call our Fort Worth, Texas, office at 972-433-7178 for an appointment.
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How Do I Know If I Have A Hormonal Imbalance
If you suspect a hormonal changes, the only way to fully confirm a hormonal imbalance is to have your hormones tested with a simple and easy blood test.
An easy way to test at home is with a reputable home health test company such as Lets Get Checked. Ive used them personally for several tests and have found them to be very easy, accurate as well as convenient. You simply order online and receive a kit in a few days. Simple instructions are included with a convenient return envelope. Youll get notified within a few days to go online to view your test results. Easier and often cheaper than going to the doctor. No doctor referral or approval is needed. Use this link and FITFOUNDME code for a 15% discount!
Getting a diagnosis on what hormones are imbalanced is the first step to fixing a hormone imbalance and feeling better than ever.