How Weight Loss Affects Your Hormones

Obesity is considered one of the most serious threats to mankind. Over the years, obesity levels have soared and have deteriorated the lifestyle of millions of people across the globe. Excess weight gain can lead to a number of health risks, such as diabetes, heart diseases, cancer and strokes. In addition, excess weight gain can also cause hormonal disruption.

Hormones are special biochemical products that are produced by a group of cells called the endocrine glands.

Hormones are either secreted directly to the point of target or are secreted into the bloodstream to affect various parts of the body to initiate reactions and aid in important processes, such as metabolism, growth, development, reproduction and mood. Here’s how weight loss affects some of the most important hormones in the body:

Insulin

One of the most beneficial effects of weight gain is on insulin. Overeating and consuming excess carbohydrates may cause insulin surges in the body, which results in fat storage and weight gain. These insulin surges may lead to Type-2 diabetes. Weight loss helps prevent insulin sensitivity and normalizes the secretion of insulin in the pancreas (where it is produced). This not only reduces cravings but also prevents the risk of Type-2 Diabetes.

Female Hormones

Excess weight gain and obesity may lead to a number of hormonal irregularities in females, leading to infertility and menstrual aberration. In a study conducted in Heidelberg, 58 obese premenopausal women, all of whom were infertile and had hormonal disruptions, about 38 of those women volunteered for a weight loss program. Within a few weeks of the program, hormone levels had normalized and improved among 80% of the participants.

Male Hormones

Obesity and excessive weight gain can cause hormone disruptions in men. Excessive weight gain can prolong the secretions of heightened levels of cortisol in the body. High levels of cortisol levels put the body in survival mode. This initiates the process of fat cells in the body and causes the metabolism to slow down. Other side effects of high level of cortisol include increase in appetite. It also causes the body to use more energy, causing you to feel tired and fatigue. In addition, high cortisol level disrupts the level of testosterone causing andropause. Weight loss can help regulate testosterone level, which helps curb belly fat.

Losing weight offer a number of health benefits that can help you lead a healthier life.