According to the fitness industry, all you have to do is balance your “calories in vs. calories out” if you want to lose weight. However, for those who have ever actually tried to lose weight, this simplistic view of the complex human body does not represent the struggle they face when trying to lose weight.
While energy balance is a real thing, the bond is always working to maintain it, the relationship between hormones and weight reduction is real. The problem is, it is often overlooked. Think about it. When is the last time you heard a weight loss doctor or scientist on television discussing the effect of leptin on satiety, or how high levels of cortisol result in glucose release, which leads to the inability to burn fat?
The question is, what hormones impact your ability to lose weight?
There are several.
If you have tried following a sensible diet, eliminating processed foods from your diet, reducing your stress, sleeping well, and still haven’t seen significant weight loss, then it is a good time to have your hormone levels checked.
Hormones that Affect Your Ability to Lose Weight
Insulin is the hormone most discussed related to problems losing weight. The argument of “carbs make you fat,” is often referred to as the only problem. However, there are several other hormones that can affect your ability to lose weight. These include:
- Testosterone
- Leptin
- Insulin
- Thyroid
- Estrogen
- Cortisol
- Progesterone
While some are gender specific, progesterone and estrogen for women, and testosterone for men, they each impact a person’s ability to lose weight.
How to Handle Hormone Related Weight Loss Issues
If you suffer from an imbalance of hormones, you need to take action. There is no way to know for sure unless you are tested. In most cases, testing is relatively easy and the results are easy to understand. Once your doctor has the results, they can easily prescribe hormone replacement or hormone therapy to ensure the issue is resolved.
The fact is, each of the hormones listed above impacts a person’s body and their ability to lose weight in a different way. While the end result is the same – pounds you just can’t shed – you have to learn what the specific problem is to resolve the issue. Otherwise, you may continue to fight the battle of the bulge indefinitely.
What if You Don’t Have a Hormone Imbalance/Issue?
If your tests reveal that there is no issue with your hormones, you may be a bit distraught at first. After all, if it isn’t your hormones, why can’t you lose weight? There are a number of reasons for this. Your doctor can provide you with more insight about options you can try. A smart option is to try a detox. Sometimes, the body is so full of toxins that cause GI issues and irregularities, losing weight is impossible.
If you find weight loss evades you, it may be time to discuss your options with a doctor. At Premier Health and Wellness, you will find a team of professionals who are dedicated to helping you find the problem and getting your weight under control.
