When it comes to weight loss, people often say that if you limit your calorie intake and exercise more, you’re sure to start shedding pounds. But, in reality, numerous factors can influence your ability to lose weight, and it varies from person to person. Hormones, in particular, have a major impact on weight loss, especially as you age.
Below, we’ll discuss the connection between hormones and weight loss to help you achieve balance and work toward your goals.
Which Hormones Affect Weight Loss?
Hormones are chemical messengers that your body produces and transports through the bloodstream to manage various bodily functions. Many hormones influence weight loss, including:
- Insulin: High insulin levels can prompt your body to store calories as fat instead of burning them, making weight loss more difficult.
- Leptin is produced in your fat cells to regulate energy expenditure and appetite. Leptin resistance, which occurs when your body releases leptin but your brain doesn’t respond to it, can lead to overeating and weight gain.
- Ghrelin: Mainly produced in the stomach, ghrelin sends hunger signals to the brain, stimulates fat storage, increases insulin sensitivity, and encourages the release of growth hormones. Low ghrelin levels can lead to overeating and compromise your weight loss efforts.
- Estrogen: Although estrogen is the primary female reproductive hormone, it plays a role in weight management. Low estrogen levels (from menopause, for example) can slow down your metabolism, contribute to insulin resistance, and cause fat accumulation in the belly.
- Cortisol, the primary stress hormone, can increase your appetite, stimulate cravings, and encourage fat storage when it’s produced in excess.
- Thyroid hormones directly impact your metabolism and how many calories you burn throughout the day. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) often leads to weight gain, among other symptoms.
At A Place For Wellness, we offer hormone optimization services to help you achieve hormonal balance and get on the path to sustainable weight loss. Schedule your appointment today!