How Does Estrogen Impact Weight Gain
Produced within the ovaries, estrogen is responsible for optimal functioning of all female reproductive organs. Estrogen promotes the storage of fat for healthy reproductive years. When estrogen is balanced, the right amount of fat helps carry out female reproductive functions. However, when theres too little or too much estrogen, weight gain often results.
Overweight women typically have high amounts of estrogen, as do women in the first half of pregnancy. Then theres perimenopause and menopause, which are characterized by a notable decrease in estrogen. Its during this time that some women opt for hormone replacement therapy to replace declining estrogen levels.
Natural Estrogen For Weight Loss
Reviewed By:Dr. Douglas Lord
Menopause is the phase of life a woman enters when she has not had a period for one year. Perimenopause is the time of life that comes just before menopause, when the time between periods is growing longer and less predictable. Both phases involve hormonal shifts, which can affect the body in various ways. Weight gain is common during perimenopause and menopause alike.
Weight gain can increase the bodys risk of diabetes and heart disease, so controlling weight gain is very important. Understanding how menopause and perimenopause affect weight gain, and knowing what you can do to avoid such weight gain, can help you take care of yourself while these hormonal changes are taking place. Heres what you need to know. The good news is that balancing the hormones with atural estrogen replacement weight loss treatments can help control your weight. With that, lets look at some different Natural Estrogen for Weight Loss.
How To Maximize The Benefits Of Hrt
Its essential to note that HRT isnt a miracle drug. Your hormone replacement drugs arent going to counteract a diet thats high in calories and low in nutrients. HRT wont dramatically increase your metabolism so that you can lose weight without even trying.
You have to combine HRT with a healthy diet and active lifestyle to obtain the maximum benefits. Make sure that youre consuming ample protein, and avoid processed carbohydrates.
Not sure if your portions are in line with your needs? Consider meeting with a dietician who can help you understand the size of a healthy portion. They can also offer guidance about your caloric and macronutrient needs.
Many women struggle with exercising enough as they get older. They might feel tired and experience an overall decrease in energy.
Look for small ways to add additional movement to your day. A short walk a few times a day adds up. If you arent already, add strength training to your exercise regimen.
Women tend to lose muscle mass as they get older, in part due to their decrease in activity. As you lose muscle mass, your metabolism will decrease. Per pound, muscle burns more calories than fat.
Strength training helps you retain your muscle mass. Aim to strength train at least a few times a week.
Dont feel like youre restricted to lighter weights. Heavier weights are much more effective at increasing your amount of muscle.
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Precautions And Safety Concerns
Food and Drug Administration states that some companies carry products to help people manage their menopause symptoms and market them as dietary supplements. These companies often claim their products remedy weight gain, hair loss, or signs of aging. However, they may be harmful to a persons health.
The National Institutes of Health states that these products regularly claim to reduce appetite and body fat and increase metabolism without clear evidence. It also states that weight loss supplements are expensive, and some of their ingredients can interact with certain medications a person may be taking.
The NIH lists some common ingredients in dietary supplements for weight loss, such as:
- , a drug people take for high blood pressure.
A 2019 study states that there should be regulations requiring dietary supplements claiming to reduce weight and build muscles to provide evidence and pass safety protocols. The researchers suggest that those who use these products may be nearly three times more likely to need hospitalization or emergency care than those taking vitamin supplements.
Another recent study explains that there is not enough evidence to support the efficacy of weight loss supplements.
It is best for people to ask their doctor if they want to learn more about these products, particularly if they have high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease. A person should also check the scientific evidence available before buying a dietary supplement.
How Do Hormones Affect My Weight
Hormones regulate almost all the functions in the human body. They are essential for ensuring healthy growth and development, and they also regulate our mood and sleep cycles.
As women grow older, hormones that are essential for controlling weight, such as estrogen and testosterone, decrease. So it becomes increasingly difficult to get rid of excess weight and body fat especially abdominal fat.
All hormones are important and a hormonal imbalance can cause many health problems, including decreased bone mass, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and weight gain.
Estrogen is one of the main hormones that regulate weight, but there are many others that also play an important role when it comes to weight loss.
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Are There Natural Alternatives To Hrt
HRT is regularly prescribed to women to help manage the symptoms of the menopause.
The menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, when a womans body no longer produces enough oestrogen and progesterone to release an egg and menstrual periods come to an end. Its these fluctuations in hormone levels that can cause unpleasant symptoms like mood swings, hot flushes and joint pain.
HRT has been shown to help alleviate these symptoms by boosting the levels of female sex hormones in the body but whilst many women have found HRT helpful, it isnt suitable for everyone, and there are risks to taking it .
HRT isnt recommended for women with a history of breast cancer because oestrogen promotes the growth of breast cells. Some studies have also linked HRT to an increased risk of breast, womb and ovarian cancer, though this increased risk is small compared to many lifestyle risk factors like smoking and obesity.
So are there any natural alternatives for women who either cant undertake, or dont want to undertake, HRT?
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A Difference You Can Feel
BHRT can have a major impact on how you feel and function. Most men and women notice not only a significant improvement in energy and mood but also an increase in lean body mass and reduction in fat, for a healthier body composition. They find that with proper diet and exercise, they have a much easier time losing weight and keeping it off.
Following pellet therapy, patients typically feel a difference within a few days to a few weeks. Peak absorption occurs within 4-5 weeks. After six weeks, we may reassess your hormone levels and symptoms to ensure the dosage is right. Optimization can sometimes take up to six months to get the hormone levels just right for each individual. Most women receive a new pellet every 3-4 months, while most men typically receive a new pellet every 4-5 months.
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Why Take Hormone Replacement Therapy
Most women in perimenopause and menopause are struggling with their weight on some level. As we discussed, hormones control metabolism and weight balance.
The most effective way to get hormones back on track, halt the ever-present scale creep, and return to a healthy weight is to correct hormonal imbalances with HRT. Once hormones are back in balance, weight loss can begin.
Types Of Hormone Replacement Therapy
There are several types of hormone replacement therapies available:
Estrogen-only HRT
Estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy includes a synthetic form of estrogen. This form can increase your risk of getting endometrial cancer if you still have a uterus. Healthcare providers dont recommend using estrogen-only HRT if you have any of the following medical conditions:
Progestin-only HRT
Progestin-only hormone replacement therapy contains a synthetic form of progesterone. Your doctor may prescribe both estrogen-only and progestin-only HRT to decrease your risk of endometrial cancer. This form of HRT causes many of the same side effects as estrogen-only medication.
Estrogen and progestin combination
This form of hormone replacement therapy provides you with synthetic estrogen and progesterone in one dose. It can be a good option for individuals who prefer to take their HRT all at once. Theres no estrogen or progestin HRT that leads to weight loss or weight gain.
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How Hormones Affect Weight Loss And Retention
Hormones are chemicals within the body that are produced by the endocrine systems glands. These hormones travel throughout the body to the proper organs, systems, and tissues to deliver messages telling systems within the body what to do and when.
Research has shown that as we age, there are changes in hormones that occur naturally for example, an endocrine tissue may produce less of its hormone than it did at a younger age, or it may produce the same amount at a slower rate. This is followed by a drop in progesterone, DHEA, parathyroid hormone, and calcitonin. Without the right balance of hormones, your body loses the ability to regulate the processes that lead to weight loss. This results in a slower metabolism, an increase in abdominal fat, and less energy for exercise.
Best For Vegans: Hum Counter Cravings
- Advantage: suitable for vegans and gluten-free
- Disadvantage: more expensive than many competitors
The ingredients in Counter Cravings supplements include chromium, forskolin, and fucoxanthin. According to the manufacturer, this product may help reduce cravings, boost metabolism, and increase relaxation.
The product is vegan and gluten-free and does not include GMOs or artificial sweeteners.
It may best suit vegans and individuals who want to reduce food cravings.
The company recommends taking 1 capsule twice per day with food. One bottle contains 60 capsules or a months supply.
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What Are The Different Types Of Hormone Replacement Therapy
There are many forms of HRT, and they all have their own advantages and disadvantages. Your doctor will talk you through the different options before you start treatment.
Some ways HRT may be administered include:
- Implants inserted under the skin
- Vaginal estrogen, such as a cream or ring thats inserted
- Testosterone gel
Your age, the regularity of your period, and other risk factors will be considered when deciding which hormone therapy is best for you. An endocrinologist can best advise you.
How long does it take for hormone therapy to work?
It may take a couple of weeks before you start to feel the effects of hormone replacement therapy.
Your doctor may recommend a 3-month trial with HRT, and your dosage may be adjusted based on your bodys response.
Key Point: What is Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Also called natural hormone therapy, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy uses plant-based hormones that have the same structure as our own hormones.
Synthetic hormones that are traditionally used in HRT, have been chemically altered and do not resemble natural hormones.
The FDA has approved certain brands that use bioidentical hormones, and some evidence shows that some bioidentical hormones may be safer than synthetic hormones. For example, progesterone may be safer than progestin.
Hormone Replacement Therapy Can Help Increase Your Metabolism
A slow metabolism can make it difficult to lose weight. Hormone replacement therapy can help increase your metabolism, which will help you burn more calories and lose weight.
Some research has shown that adding estrogen hormone therapy can help the body to process starches and sugars more efficiently instead of storing them as fat.
An increased metabolism can also help you maintain your weight loss in the long term.
When your metabolism is working properly, your body will be better able to burn calories and keep off excess weight.
HRT can also help boost metabolism by regulating the production of thyroid hormones.
Thyroid hormones are responsible for regulating your metabolism.
If your thyroid hormone levels are imbalanced, it can lead to a slow metabolism.
Hormone replacement therapy can help balance your thyroid hormone levels and increase your metabolism.
As an added bonus, an increased metabolism can also give you more energy!
Youll feel more energetic and motivated to stick to your weight loss goals.
If you have an underactive thyroid, you may find it difficult to lose weight even if you eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly.
Hormone replacement therapy can help get your thyroid back on track, so you can finally start seeing results.
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Best For Controlling Appetite: Life Extension Advanced Appetite Suppress
- Advantage: suitable for vegetarians
- Disadvantage: mixed reviews regarding its effectiveness
These supplements contain white kidney bean extracts to help maintain the balance of gut hormones that control appetite and satiety, which may reduce the urge to snack frequently.
They do not contain genetically modified organisms and are gluten-free. They are also suitable for people who follow a vegetarian diet.
The company recommends that people eat healthy foods and exercise regularly while taking these supplements. It suggests people take 1 capsule twice per day before meals.
This product may best suit individuals who would like to control their appetite. It comes with a 100% money-back guarantee, and each bottle contains 60 capsules.
How The Hcg Diet Works For Women
HCG, human chorionic gonadotropin, is a bioidentical hormone that mirrors the same hormone women make when they are pregnant. By combining hCG with diet, we find that our female patients lose more weightand keep it off. While there are numerous benefits of the hCG diet for women, the largest benefit likely stems from the fact that hCG reduces feelings of hunger. With hCG, you get to say goodbye to those pesky cravings!
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How Do Hormones Cause Weight Gain
Your hormonal balance is directly linked to weight gain, particularly visceral fat in the abdomen that can threaten overall health and life expectancy. Hormones in the gut and produced by the adrenal system are tied to weight gain, meaning that overproduction or deficiency of these hormones makes it easier to gain weight. This is particularly true for women and men who are experiencing hormonal imbalances caused by the natural aging process.
What Our Patients Say
As of March 2021, I have been a HerKare patient for 3 years. I have driven from the Austin to Ft. Worth and Southlake since March 2018. In fact, today I attempted to drive to Southlake to see the provider, Dania Khoncarly, because she is so amazing, but the roads were too dangerous with the current ice storm in Texas, so I visited the Mansfield location instead as it was closer for me. The patient care has been nothing short of amazing. In fact, I cant imagine my life without HerKare. I struggled with hormone deficiency since 2003 until March 2018. The treatment plan provided by HerKare has positively impacted my way of life socially, emotionally, and physically. One of my closest friends now drives from Copperas Cove to the Mansfield location. I have several friends in my age group mid to late 40s & early 50s who would benefit from HerKare. I understand with our nation experiencing COVID, now might not be the time to open a new location, however, your services could positively impact the well-being of so many women. When the time is right, please open more HerKare locations!
Patient since March 2018
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What Are The Stages Of Hormonal Change For Women
Women begin to experience the hormonal changes associated with the cessation of ovulation about eight to 10 years before menopause truly sets in, which means that menopause is a slow process.
Premenopause and Perimenopause
For many women, the first stage of menopause happens between ages 30 and 40, with the primary symptoms being cycles that become less regular and hot flashes during the night. Perimenopause is a more substantial stage where the symptoms of hormonal changes become more pronounced. In particular, perimenopause includes faster depletion of estrogen levels however, women are still capable of becoming pregnant during perimenopause, although fertility rates are likely lower.
Menopause and Postmenopause
Menopause is the full suspension of the ovulation cycle, meaning women no longer have any periods because their bodies do not produce enough estrogen to ovulate. Menopause is marked by hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbance, sexual dysfunction, and more. Many women are surprised to learn that postmenopause, which can occur for over 10 years after the onset of menopause, features a continuation of these symptoms.
Which Stage Features the Most Potential Weight Gain?
What To Look For When Choosing Menopause Supplements
When choosing a menopause supplement, look for ingredients such as black cohosh, red clover, and saint johns wort. These ingredients were found to be highly effective in peer-reviewed clinical trials. A lot of menopause supplements also contain phytoestrogens from soy and other plants, but their efficiency is still unknown.
Other than that, you will find many different ingredients in menopause supplements that treat symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, depression, and vaginal dryness. Because the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements, it can be hard to tell if the ingredients in your product are safe.
However, some products are manufactured in an FDA-approved facility and by the Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines, which is a sign that a product is safe for use.
Furthermore, look for products offering a money-back guarantee as this also is a sign that the manufacturer has your safety and satisfaction in mind. This also means you wont be throwing money away on products that dont offer any relief.
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