Pituitary Gland Releases Thyroid-Stimulating Hormones

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If you are you struggling with unexplained weight gain, it might be due to hormonal imbalances. Hormones like leptin, insulin, estrogens, androgens, and growth hormone play a big role in your appetite, metabolism, and body fat distribution.

For hormones to have the desired effect, target tissues must possess receptors that can receive and interpret their messages. Take, for instance, the collaboration between your pituitary gland and thyroid.

The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and organs in your body. Its main job is to use hormones to control and coordinate important functions like metabolism, energy levels, reproduction, response to stress, and mood. Hormones in your body can be classified as proteins or steroids and play a crucial role in your wellness. Imbalances can cause problems in regulating and coordinating numerous bodily functions leading to various health issues.

Test When You Don’t Feel Like Yourself

Both men and women naturally experience a decline in hormones as young adults and this trend continues throughout life. Undergoing testing in your 20s or 30s can be prudent anytime you don’t feel yourself. Discussed below are common culprits for imbalances, including:

Estrogen: Estrogen is a crucial hormone for females and is responsible for many distinct characteristics in women, such as ovulation, menstruation and breast development, but men with increased belly fat are at high risk of estrogen dominance.

Testosterone: It is important to take note that hormonal imbalances aren't exclusive to women. Men experience fluctuations in their testosterone levels throughout the day. Testosterone production typically peaking in the morning and declines during the day.

Progesterone: The female body is both amazing and hormonally complex. Progesterone balance plays an important role in the female reproductive system and affects a woman’s weight, energy levels and overall well-being.

Insulin: High blood sugar levels can harm healthy cells, which means it is crucial for your body to produce and release insulin to control glucose levels. When released from the pancreas, insulin helps decrease blood glucose concentration as long as your body doesn’t suffer from insulin resistance.

Cortisol: In addition to its role in the stress response, cortisol also plays a role in regulating your metabolism, blood pressure, and inflammation. It even helps with memory formation. So, you can see just how important hormone balance is for your overall wellness.

Thyroid Hormone: Changes in weight can often be a warning sign of a thyroid disorder. Low levels of thyroid hormones can lead to weight gain, while an overproduction of hormones can cause unexpected weight loss. Hypothyroidism can cause weight gain of 10 pounds or more, typically due to excess salt and water retention.

Although you would like to believe you have complete control over your body, it's important to remember that hormones can play a significant role in your physical and emotional health. Understanding hormones like testosterone, estrogen, cortisol, insulin, human growth hormone, serotonin, and melatonin is essential for taking care of your health and wellness.

At MRC, we understand the importance of hormone balance for your well-being. We work closely with you to test your blood levels and identify deficiencies. Based on the results, we can create a personalized plan that may include hormone therapy, lifestyle changes, and optimizing your adrenal and thyroid function.