Spare Tire Got You Feeling Deflated?
A functional medicine specialist says a hormonal imbalance could be to blame for your weight troubles.
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Signs That Your Weight Loss Struggles May Be Hormone-Related
You’ve put in the effort — with nothing to show for it
“The first sign is that you’re having trouble losing the weight,” Vyas said. “You know, you’ve tried all the fad diets and the influencer workouts, and you’re still having trouble losing the weight.”
Hormones Affect Weight Control
Several hormones affect weight control. “It makes sense to look at your hormones as the source of your weight problems,” one functional medicine specialist said.
Learn More About Hormones and Weight Loss
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Five Signs That Your Weight Loss Struggles May Be Hormone-Related
1. You’re having trouble losing the weight
Hormones are chemicals produced by the body that regulate metabolism, growth, reproduction and other processes.
Heathline reports that nine hormones significantly affect weight — insulin, leptin, ghrelin, cortisol, estrogen, neuropeptide Y, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), cholecystokinin (CCK) and peptide YY (PYY).
2. You’ve got a beer belly or muffin top
A “midsection fat pouch” could be due to testosterone or estrogen troubles.
Vyas warns of a “midsection fat pouch” that’s tough to shed.
For men, this could be due to a decrease in testosterone. Testosterone is key to maintaining muscle mass — muscle tissue burns more calories than fat tissue.
3. You’re gaining weight in your hips, thighs or butt
Estrogen is the primary culprit for weight gain in the hips, thighs and buttocks.
4. You’re losing muscle
“No. 4 is you’re losing muscle, as in you try to work out and instead of gaining muscle, you end up with that flabby feel to yourself,” Vyas said.
Elevated cortisol levels can lead to muscle loss, as can low testosterone, estrogen and an underactive thyroid.
5. Your appetite is increasing
You may have a ghrelin issue if you notice your appetite is increasing and you’re craving salty or sugary foods.
Conclusion
If you identify with one or more of these signs, it may be worth exploring the role of hormones in your weight loss struggles. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine if hormonal imbalances are impacting your weight and overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common hormonal imbalances that affect weight loss?
Cortisol, insulin, ghrelin, and thyroid hormone imbalances are among the most common hormonal imbalances that affect weight loss.
Can hormonal imbalances be reversed?
Yes, hormonal imbalances can be reversed with the help of hormone replacement therapy, lifestyle changes, and stress management techniques.
What are some lifestyle changes I can make to support hormonal balance?
Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress can help support hormonal balance and promote weight loss.
Can I treat hormonal imbalances on my own?
No, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for hormonal imbalances. They can help you develop a personalized plan to address any hormonal imbalances and support your overall health and wellness.
