Which hormones are involved the most in weight loss (or gain), and how can I keep them in balance? Having a proper balance of hormones is critical to good health and a prerequisite for weight loss. First and foremost is the hormone insulin.
WHAT IS INSULINE AND HOW DOES IT WORK?
Hyperinsulinism is a primary cause of weight gain or inability to lose weight. The pancreas secretes too much insulin in response to increasing blood sugar from a carbohydrate-rich diet (sugars and other refined carbohydrates). Because insulin is a fat storage hormone, it will keep your metabolism in continuous fat storage mode.
WHAT IS CORTISOL?
Next is cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone which is secreted not just when we’re feeling stressed and overwhelmed, but when we’re not getting enough sleep, or taking in too much caffeine or other stimulants. Cortisol contributes to abdominal obesity and accelerates the aging process, including thinning skin and bones.
THE ROLE OF LEPTIN
Leptin is a hormone secreted by fat cells which sends the message to our brain to stop eating, the message being, “we have enough stored reserves.” But the message leptin sends gets muddled when consuming a diet high in sugar, causing leptin resistance. Overweight and obesity is a hallmark of leptin resistance. And the fat storage continues since insulin is still hanging around thanks to all those carbs.
GHRELIN THE HUNGER HORMONE
Ghrelin is a hunger hormone secreted primarily in the stomach. It is released when the stomach is empty, signaling the brain that it’s time to eat. Secretion of this important hormone ceases once the stomach is full. Ghrelin is also produced during times of stress—like staying up too late and not getting enough sleep. This may be a primary reason sleep deprivation increases cravings for carbs. Add cortisol to the equation and voila—belly fat!
WHAT ROLE DOES ESTROGEN PLAY IN MEN AND WOMEN?
Estrogen dominance (specially in men) has become more prevalent with exposure to all the toxic xenoestrogens in the environment. Plastics, bisphenol A, phthalates, and parabens are just a few examples of “gender benders” causing endocrine disruption in not just women, but men too. Excess belly fat is also a source of estrogen which aromatizes any circulating testosterone, turning it into more estrogen, causing diminishing muscle tone and gynecomastia (breast development) in men.
KNOW MORE ABOUT THE THYROID
An under active thyroid is a common and independent cause of weight loss resistance because thyroid hormones literally run the show on metabolism. Weight gain is a classic symptom of this condition. This is a term we call hypothyroidism. We can absolutely test for this an identify if you are suffering from this unnecessary cause. Call us today, for more information and get started at a discounted rate.
