Constant Stress Can Trigger Hormone Release

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Hormonal weight gain occurs when the hormones responsible for weight regulation are not functioning properly. This can be due to hormone resistance, excess production and release, or a deficiency of certain chemical messengers.

It is crucial to address and treat the underlying causes of hormonal imbalances. Hormones play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, and proper function involves interactions between the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.

The hormone-receptor system controls specific processes in your cells, tissues, and organs. They control the development of your brain and nervous system, the growth and function of your reproductive system, your metabolism and blood sugar levels. While hormones reach the entire body, only the cells with compatible receptors can respond to them. Once hormones have served their purpose on target organs or tissues, they are destroyed.

Hormone Tests Can Confirm Imbalances

Hormonal imbalance in women often occurs at predictable points, such as menstruation, puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Hormone tests can help determine if difficulty losing weight is attributed to hormonal factors, like those below:

Testosterone: Nutritional choices also play a key role, and together with hormones, they can affect the risk of developing chronic medical conditions like diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.

Progesterone: Low levels of progesterone can cause heavy and irregular menstrual periods as well as fertility problems for women who are trying to get pregnant. It's a powerful hormone that also deserves attention for those who are trying manage their weight.

Estrogen: Having too little estrogen hormone production and release can also cause problems. In women, it can lead to weakened bones, menstrual issues, fertility problems, and mood disorders. Women often experience hot flashes, sleep problems, and a decreased sex drive.

Insulin: Insulin regulates the absorption of sugar (glucose) into target cells in your body. Weight gain is a common concern for individuals taking insulin. The good news is that it is possible to manage your weight while using insulin. Excessive insulin and cortisol can lead to weight gain over time.

Cortisol: In addition to better stress management, you can regulate cortisol hormone through dietary changes and supplements. Including plenty of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins B, C, and D in your diet can help reduce cortisol and promote overall health and wellness.

Thyroid Hormone: Improving your diet, increasing physical activity, getting enough sleep, managing stress effectively, and making healthy lifestyle choices are all key in maintaining a healthy thyroid function and preventing weight gain. If you have been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder, your doctor may prescribe thyroid medication such as levothyroxine.

Elevated estrogen can throw a broad range of hormones out of balance, worsening symptoms of hormonal weight gain. While there's no evidence that specific foods can directly boost leptin, the hormone that regulates appetite, having a poor diet or carrying excess weight can make leptin less effective.

Increasing your fiber intake can help stimulate the release of ghrelin, a hormone that helps control hunger. So, make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains in your diet. If needed, you can also take a fiber supplement to boost ghrelin production.

Contact MRC to learn more about our MRC test kit and how we use a personalized approach to help you get on track for healthy living.