How can hormones stop weight loss?

When it comes to weight loss, many factors influence the process, and hormones play a significant role. Hormones are chemical messengers in the body that regulate various functions, including metabolism, appetite, and energy storage. If your hormones are imbalanced, they can create obstacles that make losing weight challenging, even with diet and exercise.

We speak to a leading endocrinologist who explores the role of hormones in weight management and why hormonal imbalances might stop weight loss.

What role do hormones play in weight regulation?

Hormones are crucial for regulating metabolism and appetite, two major factors in weight management. Metabolism refers to the rate at which the body converts food into energy. When hormone levels are balanced, the body can maintain a healthy weight by effectively using or storing the calories you consume.

Two essential hormones involved in weight regulation are insulin and cortisol. Insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps cells absorb glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream. When insulin levels are too high or low, it can lead to weight gain or difficulty losing weight. On the other hand, cortisol, often known as the "stress hormone," is released by the adrenal glands during stress. Elevated cortisol levels can increase fat storage, especially around the abdomen, making it harder to shed pounds.

How does insulin resistance affect weight loss?

Insulin resistance is a condition where the body’s cells do not respond adequately to insulin, causing the pancreas to produce even more insulin to compensate. This results in high insulin levels in the blood, leading to a situation where the body stores more fat than it uses for energy. This is particularly problematic because high insulin levels promote fat storage and prevent fat breakdown, making it difficult for those with insulin resistance to lose weight, despite healthy eating and exercise.

This condition is often associated with Type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. If you are experiencing difficulty losing weight and have risk factors for insulin resistance, such as a family history of diabetes or a sedentary lifestyle, it’s essential to speak with a specialist.

Can thyroid imbalances stop weight loss?

The thyroid gland, located in the neck, produces hormones that regulate your metabolism. When your thyroid is not functioning correctly, it can either produce too few hormones (hypothyroidism) or too many hormones (hyperthyroidism). Hypothyroidism slows down metabolism, making it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, cold sensitivity, and depression, which can further contribute to weight gain by reducing your physical activity levels.

If you have symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, such as unexplained weight gain or fatigue, you may want to discuss thyroid function testing with your doctor.

Why does high cortisol lead to weight gain?

Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, is released during periods of emotional or physical stress. When cortisol levels are elevated over a long period, it can increase cravings for high-calorie foods and promote fat storage, especially around the abdomen. This type of weight gain is sometimes called "stress weight" and is a common barrier for those trying to lose weight.

Chronic stress, lack of sleep, and certain medical conditions can lead to consistently high cortisol levels. For those struggling with weight loss and experiencing high-stress levels, stress management techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and adequate sleep can help lower cortisol levels and support weight loss efforts.

Are sex hormones like oestrogen and testosterone important?

Oestrogen and testosterone, often associated with female and male sexual health, also influence body weight. In women, declining oestrogen levels during menopause can lead to weight gain, especially around the abdomen. This is partly due to how oestrogen helps regulate fat distribution. For men, low testosterone levels can lead to increased body fat and decreased muscle mass, making it harder to maintain a healthy weight.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an option for some individuals experiencing these hormonal changes, but it’s essential to discuss with a healthcare provider whether HRT is appropriate for you, as it carries potential risks and benefits.