Hormones Imbalances and Weight Gain
If you have been trying in vain to lose weight and have had no success, there may be more to it. Often, weight gain or lack of weight loss can be attributed to an imbalance in hormones in your body, whether due to menopause, age, or lifestyle. Hormones play a crucial role in our body by regulating various physiological processes, including metabolism, appetite, and fat storage. Here are some essential hormones and their effects on weight and what you can do to restore balance and help with weight loss.
Insulin: The pancreas releases insulin in response to elevated blood sugar levels. Its primary role is facilitating glucose uptake from the bloodstream into cells for energy production. When insulin levels are consistently high due to insulin resistance (as seen in type 2 diabetes), it can increase fat storage and weight gain. This is why Ozempic—a diabetic drug, has been so popular among people trying to lose weight. However, as soon as you stop taking it, your weight returns. Instead, balance your insulin and lower fat storage with Berberine, a natural and tried-and-true herbal remedy that’s safe with no known side effects that helps to correct the underlying cause.
Leptin: Fat cells produce leptin and play a role in regulating appetite and energy use. It signals the brain to reduce hunger and increase energy expenditure when fat stores are sufficient. The brain does not receive proper signals in leptin resistance or low leptin levels, leading to increased appetite and overeating. You can improve leptin sensitivity and its healthy level by increasing your omega-3 essential fatty acid consumption through Omega Support supplements or eating more foods with omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon and sardines.
Ghrelin is a hormone produced in the stomach that stimulates appetite. It increases before meals and decreases after eating, signaling hunger and regulating food intake. Imbalances in ghrelin levels can lead to excessive hunger, cravings, and weight gain. Rhubarb root, lotus leaf, and hawthorn have been used traditionally to naturally reduce appetite and affect ghrelin levels in the body. These and other herbs are part of the B-Slim formulation.
Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. In times of stress, cortisol levels rise, increasing appetite, particularly for sugary and fatty foods. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can contribute to weight gain, especially around the abdominals. Consider supplementing with Magnesium to help regulate cortisol levels. Studies have shown that taking magnesium can reduce cortisol levels in the body. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition in 2018 found that supplementation with magnesium for eight weeks reduced cortisol levels in healthy adults.
Estrogen and Progesterone are sex hormones that play a role in regulating metabolism and fat distribution in women. Fluctuations or imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels, such as those experienced during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can contribute to weight gain or changes in body composition. Natural herbs like wild yam, angelica, and peony have been used for thousands of years in Eastern medicine to balance female hormones and prevent unhealthy weight fluctuations. You can find these and other herbs in the Passages Plus formula.
Thyroid Hormones (thyroxine or T4 and triiodothyronine or T3) regulate metabolism and energy. When thyroid function is disrupted (hypothyroidism), metabolism slows down, leading to weight gain or difficulty in losing weight. Green tea has been used to speed up metabolism, increase fat burning and support healthy thyroid function. You can find concentrated green tea extract and other nutrients in Metabo-Max.
It's important to note that hormonal imbalances alone may not be the sole cause of weight gain. They often interact with other factors, such as diet, physical activity, genetics, and overall health. If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, we invite you to consult with our practitioners at Tao of Wellness, who can evaluate your symptoms, conduct appropriate tests, and recommend appropriate treatment or lifestyle changes.