Many people focus solely on diet and exercise when trying to lose weight, but if the hormones are not functioning properly, these efforts are in vain.
When there is an imbalance or dysfunction in hormones or their receptors, it can result in weight gain and difficulty in losing weight. For instance, studies have shown that individuals with hypothyroidism (an under-active thyroid gland) tend to have a slower metabolism, leading to weight gain. Similarly, imbalances in estrogen levels leads to increased fat storage, especially around the abdomen.
On the other hand, insulin resistance, a condition where the body is unable to respond properly to insulin, leads to weight gain and difficulty in losing weight. This is because insulin plays a vital role in regulating fat metabolism and storing excess glucose as fat.
In addition, testosterone levels also play a significant role in maintaining an optimal weight. Low levels of testosterone have been linked to an increase in body fat and difficulty in losing weight, particularly in men.
As you see, insulin plays a significant role in weight loss. When we consistently consume a diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugars, our body produces more insulin than necessary, which can eventually lead to insulin resistance. This means that the cells become less responsive to insulin's message, and as a result, the body stores more fat.
Another hormone that impacts weight loss is cortisol. Cortisol is known as the stress hormone and is released by the body in response to stress. When we experience chronic, ongoing stress, our cortisol levels remain elevated, leading to an increase in appetite and cravings for unhealthy foods. It also causes the body to store more fat, particularly in the abdominal area.
Furthermore, hormones like leptin and ghrelin, known as hunger hormones, play a role in our appetite and food intake. Leptin signals to the brain when we are full and should stop eating, while ghrelin stimulates our appetite. When these hormones are imbalanced, it leads to overeating and weight gain.
It is important to make sure your hormones are balanced and you don’t have insulin resistance when you are working on losing weight and keeping it off for good. If exercise and diet is not helping in getting to the weight you want, getting to the root cause and looking into balancing your hormones maybe the answer.
Three Ways to prevent/reverse insulin resistance:
1. Getting Active: Incorporating daily exercise and movement helps burn off excess fat and build more muscle to absorb more sugar. A single session of moderate exercise can increase your glucose absorption by at least 40%!
2. Reducing Stress: Stress causes our body to produce high amounts of a hormone called cortisol, which increases blood sugar levels. This puts more stress on the pancreas to increase insulin production. Reducing your stress levels—through daily meditation, exercise, or cutting sources of stress—can help prevent IR.
3. Giving your Body the Nutrition it Desires: Try incorporating healthy foods that have a low to medium glycemic index (nuts, non-starch veggies, fish, lean meats), and limit foods with a high glycemic index (processed foods, potatoes, white bread). Integrating high-fiber foods in your diet may also help lower your BG and cholesterol levels.
Larisa Belote, Health Practitioner & Certified Detox Specialist is a strong believer that your body is a smart machine and can heal itself given a chance with the right set of tools. Call/Txt 732.996.6963 or email: larisa@stepbystep-wellness.com for a Free 20 minute consultation to discuss how you can balance your hormones, lose weight and feel like yourself again.
