Are you one of those who have tried everything possible to lose weight but without results? Have you checked your hormones? Many women suffer from hormonal imbalance, have food cravings and slow metabolism, which may be related to PMS, pregnancy, menopause or stress.
You should know that appetite, weight loss, and metabolism are directly linked to female hormones.
Here are some of the hormones responsible for weight gain in women:
1. Thyroid Hormone:
The problem with thyroid hormone is the most common among women. Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the body lacks sufficient thyroid hormone and is responsible for weight gain in women. The most common symptoms are: fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, dry skin and constipation.
2. Estrogen:
Estrogen is a female sex hormone which can cause weight gain during menopause, because of its decreased level. Fat cells are found to be another source of estrogen that converts calories into fats. This can also lead to obesity.
3. Progesterone:
The level of progesterone decreases in the body during menopause, which may cause water retention and bloating in women. In this condition you may feel like your body is fuller and heavier.
4. Testosterone:
Many women suffer from the hormonal disorder – PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome), which increases the level of testosterone, that leads to weight gain, menstrual disorders, facial hair, acne and infertility. Testosterone is also responsible for muscle mass in women.
5. Insulin:
Insulin is responsible for the regulation of fat and carbohydrates in the body. Insulin allows the body to use glucose. Insulin is also a causal agent for PCOS that leads to infertility. High levels of insulin in your body can also cause weight gain.
6. Stress Hormone Or Cortisol:
High levels of cortisol in your body lead to increased appetite and weight gain. Stress and lack of sleep are two causes of high cortisol level in the blood.
Here are some tips to avoid weight gain:
Losing weight has never been easy and the following tips can help you lose weight quicker:
- Eat low-carb foods.
- Eat only when hungry and at regular intervals
- Eat healthy food and avoid from junk food
- Measure your progress
- Avoiding alcohol and aerated drinks
- Do not use artificial sweeteners
- Exercise regularly
- Sleep more or at least for 8 hours
- Mediate more to keep away the stress
- Consume less of bakery and dairy products
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat foods or supplements rich in minerals and vitamins
- Get your hormones checked