Hormonal imbalances and problems with weight gain and loss in women

Are obesity and excess weight the result of “overeating” or illness?

The content of the article

The most common reason for having extra pounds is overeating, associated with poor eating habits and “eating” emotional problems.

Much less often, it turns out that the basis of overweight or obesity is other diseases, the symptom of which is fat deposits. This group includes hormonal disorders associated with dysfunction of the thyroid gland, adrenal glands or pituitary gland, and, as a rule, polycystic ovary syndrome in women.

What causes hyperthyroidism?

Similar to hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune disease known as Graves' disease. It usually affects women between the ages of 20 and 50 and often occurs in people with a family history of thyroid disease or other autoimmune diseases such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. In autoimmune diseases, the immune system produces antibodies known as autoantibodies that attack healthy cells of the body. In Graves' disease, autoantibodies cause thyroid cells to produce excessively high levels of hormones. Another cause of the disease may be thyroid nodules that interfere with the production of hormones.

Is the attitude towards overweight and obesity always stored in genes?

Environmental conditions play a key role in weight gain. The availability of all kinds of food products contributes to unhealthy eating and overeating. If you add to this a decrease in physical activity, during which you could burn a large number of calories consumed, it becomes clear where the extra pounds come from.

Many families whose members struggle with the problem of overweight and obesity from generation to generation attribute their problem to genetic factors. In reality, the problem of actual inheritance of obesity genes is much more complex and affects only a small percentage of people in the world. What we “inherit” is rather a tendency towards unhealthy eating and passive leisure.

On the other hand, there are diseases that are associated with weight gain. Their pathomechanism is based on excessive energy consumption associated with disturbances in the axes that regulate food intake or a decrease in basal metabolism, which causes difficulty in losing unnecessary pounds. Although these problems can occur in both sexes, they are more often diagnosed in women.

Diet restrictions

Women with gynecological diseases are contraindicated to consume smoked meats in any form. Fast food, products from fast food cafes and snack bars must be completely excluded. Fatty meats and lard, creamy meat should be limited to a minimum. In case of such diseases, a ban is placed on the consumption of alcohol and foods with a high content of garlic, red and black pepper.

Root vegetables such as radishes and onions should be avoided due to the large amount of essential oils in their composition. Strong black tea and coffee negatively affect the body's protective functions, increasing the rate of development of pathological processes.

Nutrition for gynecological disorders should be varied and comprehensive. The most important aspect when creating a diet for patients is the food intake. Meals should be made regular and small. You need to eat at least four to five times a day.

Hypothyroidism is a cause of weight loss problems

Hypothyroidism is actually a set of clinical symptoms that are the effect of a decrease in the amount of hormones produced by the thyroid gland: thyroxine and triiodothyronine. This, in turn, leads to a slowdown in metabolic processes, which aggravates the difficulties of losing excess weight.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs approximately 5 times more often in women than in men. This is because currently the most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto's disease, which belongs to the group of autoimmune diseases, that is, those in which abnormal immune processes occurring in the body lead to the destruction of the body's cells. In the case of Hashimoto's disease, antibodies destroy thyroid cells, leading to decreased hormone production. Autoimmune diseases are more common in women, so hypothyroidism is also more associated with the fair sex.

Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include: weight gain despite no increase in food intake, chronic weakness and fatigue, decreased concentration, feeling cold, constipation and menstrual irregularities. Treatment of the pathology is based on taking the missing norms of thyroid hormones.

Euthyroid states - enlarged thyroid gland

This term describes a slight enlargement of the thyroid gland. This may be normal and is not necessarily related to health problems. In some cases, an enlarged thyroid gland can occur due to iodine deficiency or inflammation caused by an infection or autoimmune disease. Most often, when people talk about thyroid-related hormonal imbalances, they are talking about two conditions: underactive, when not enough hormones are produced - hypothyroidism or hyperactive, when their excess is hyperthyroidism.

The presence of these diseases can be diagnosed with a simple blood test for thyroid hormones.

Cushing's syndrome and body fat

Cushing's syndrome is a set of clinical symptoms caused by an excess of glucocorticosteroids, one of the hormones produced by the adrenal glands. This occurs when a patient takes too many corticosteroids or when autonomic tumors form in the adrenal cortex and secrete too much of the hormone. These types of changes are also more common in women.

Patients with Cushing's syndrome are obese with a characteristic distribution of adipose tissue predominantly in the trunk and neck, while the limbs remain slender. They also develop unsightly red-brown stretch marks around their abdomen, thighs, and buttocks. Patients with Cushing's syndrome also have a characteristic round, moon-shaped face.

As a result of Cushing's syndrome, the patient may develop serious diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and osteoporosis. Treatment of the pathology is based on taking medications that inhibit the synthesis of glucocorticoids. Then it is recommended to remove the nodule - the cause of the increase in adrenal hormone levels.

Common drugs for weight loss for hormonal imbalance

Therapy to eliminate endocrine system disorders involves the use of drugs that restore the balance of hormones, inhibiting or stimulating their production. Such medications are prescribed only by a doctor after examination. There are also common drugs for the treatment of hormonal imbalance:

• Cordyceps is a food additive that is made from a special type of mushroom;
• anti-lipid tea – a supplement consisting of twelve types of medicinal herbs;
• boron uterus - a herb from which decoctions are prepared for oral administration;
• Sage is a medicinal plant that is used to prepare infusions and decoctions.

Useful to know:

• Hormonal diet pills: which ones are best to take and in what dosage?
• Detailed article on how to lose weight after childbirth:
• How to remove fat from the lower abdomen: exercises for women and men, description of nutrition rules.

“I can’t lose weight” – pituitary adenomas

The symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperadrenocorticism described above can also be caused by problems with the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. This is due to the hormonal axis “hypothalamus - pituitary gland - peripheral glands: thyroid gland, adrenal glands”. Individual hormones produced by the hypothalamus stimulate or inhibit the production of subsequent hormones by the pituitary gland, which in turn affects the production of hormones in the peripheral glands.

The most common cause of dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis is the presence of an adenoma in the pituitary gland, which most often produces one type of pituitary hormone (in half of the cases it is prolactin). Based on their size, they are divided into microadenomas (up to 1 cm in diameter) and macroadenomas (more than 1 cm).

The presence of a microadenoma is primarily associated with symptoms of diseases caused by an excess of the hormone produced by the adenoma cells. With macroadenoma, in addition to excess hormone production, the size of the lesion itself, which grows inside the skull, is important. This can lead to headaches, visual disturbances (due to proximity to the pituitary gland and optic junction), and decreased production of other pituitary hormones due to compression of the parenchyma.

Through the above mechanisms, the presence of a pituitary tumor can lead to the development of hypothyroidism. The adenoma then compresses the remaining pituitary parenchyma and causes a disruption in the production of thyroid-stimulating hormones by the pituitary gland, which increases the production of thyroid hormones.

The symptoms and consequences of hypothyroidism have been described above. On the other hand, a pituitary adenoma may produce excessive amounts of adrenocorticotropic hormone, which in turn increases the production of adrenal glucocorticosteroids, causing hyperadrenocorticism and the symptoms of Cushing's disease, also described above.

Eight hormones that prevent you from losing weight

Weight gain can be caused by dysfunction of several hormones.

Photo: GLOBAL LOOK PRESS

To lose weight, you need to eat less. A banal but obvious formula for a slim figure. However, overeating is not always the main reason for weight gain. This is often the result of hormonal imbalances. Stress, age-related changes, genetic predisposition, and poor lifestyle can cause an imbalance in the endocrine system and lead to an increase in numbers on the scale.

It is often unclear what exactly led to obesity - a diet disorder or hormonal imbalance. After all, most often it is interconnected. A vicious circle is formed: due to poor nutrition and fat deposits, the hormonal system goes haywire, and it becomes more difficult to control appetite. We overeat even more, put more fat on our sides, and pump up the production of hormones even more. Weight is growing. Losing weight becomes a real test of willpower.

Weight gain can be caused by dysfunction of 8 hormones. Let's tell you what hormones these are and what to do to bring them back to normal:

1. Thyroid hormones

The thyroid gland is located at the base of the neck. It is responsible for the production of the hormones T3, T4 (triiodothyronine and thyroxine) and calcitonin. An underactive thyroid gland, or hypothyroidism, is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces less hormone than the body needs. Hypothyroidism often leads to weight gain. However, this does not happen due to fat, but due to fluid accumulating in the tissues. The patient becomes edematous and puffy.

How to prevent:

— Use iodized salt. Iodine is part of triiodothyronine and thyrotoxin, and is therefore important for normal thyroid function. Iodine is not produced in our body. We only get it exclusively through food.

— Take vitamins and dietary supplements containing vitamin D. This vitamin is necessary for the production of calcitonin, which regulates the exchange of calcium and phosphorus in bone tissue;

— Include zinc-rich foods in your menu, such as oysters and pumpkin seeds. Zinc deficiency is often found in patients with hypothyroidism. It is this trace element that converts inactive forms of thyroid hormones into active ones.

2. Insulin

Produced by the pancreas in response to elevated blood glucose levels. Glucose is a source of energy for cells throughout the body.

Insulin allows cells to access glucose energy. And they absorb it or store it as fat.

Now let's imagine that you ate something sweet and your blood glucose levels increased. Insulin was released, the cells received energy, and the blood glucose level decreased. Then you eat chocolate again and everything starts all over again. If the body is overfed with sweets, at some point the cells will refuse to accept glucose, and its level in the blood will increase. In response, insulin levels will also increase, which is perceived by the brain as a hunger signal. You will continue to eat, but the cells will no longer respond. This condition is called insulin resistance. Blood glucose levels remain high and begin to be stored as fat.

Insulin resistance is caused by overeating and abuse of unhealthy foods, fast food, alcohol, and artificially sweetened drinks.

How to prevent:

— Eat seasonal vegetables and fruits;

— Don’t forget about healthy omega-3 fatty acids - they are found in fatty northern fish and seafood;

— Drink at least 2 liters of water per day;

— Limit consumption of alcohol, fast food, carbonated and sweetened drinks.

Insulin resistance is caused by overeating and abuse of unhealthy foods, fast food, alcohol, and artificially sweetened drinks.

Photo: GLOBAL LOOK PRESS

3. Cortisol

Cortisol is a hormone released by the adrenal glands during times of stress, anxiety, depression, and even physical trauma. The level of cortisol in the blood increases with chronic physical and mental stress, that is, when we are constantly running somewhere, experiencing stress at work, being nervous, etc.

The main function of this hormone is to reduce stress levels by increasing blood glucose levels and suppressing immune reactions. Cortisol increases the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

With constant stress, an excess of cortisol develops into a disease; fat begins to accumulate on the abdomen, forming the so-called cortisol belly.

An example is Cushing's syndrome, a disease in which cortisol levels are elevated. Patients are overweight, have a moon-shaped face, fatty deposits on the abdomen, and bright purple stretch marks on the abdomen.

How to prevent:

- Sleep at least 8 hours a day:

— Do yoga, meditation at least. This helps reduce stress levels.

— Spend more time with friends and family. And also in the fresh air;

— Limit the consumption of fast food, alcohol, fried foods.

4. Testosterone

Testosterone is a male sex hormone that is produced not only in men, but also in women. Its main functions are maintaining tone, increasing muscle and bone mass, and libido. In some cases, increased testosterone in women causes polycystic ovary syndrome, increased hair growth, decreased fertility, or even complete infertility. Polycystic ovary syndrome is usually accompanied by obesity. Patients often have impaired insulin sensitivity, high levels of “bad” cholesterol in the blood, and high blood pressure.

How to prevent:

— If you suspect any hormonal diseases, you must consult an endocrinologist, and in this case, a gynecologist for diagnosis and treatment.

— Do not abuse alcohol;

— Follow a diet that includes foods high in fiber, such as greens, salad, vegetables, whole grain bread and whole grain cereals.

5. Estrogens

Estrogens are the main female sex hormones. Any imbalance in these hormones leads to weight gain. High levels of female sex hormones can be caused by increased production or a diet rich in estrogen.

Increased estrogen levels are closely related to insulin production and cell insensitivity to glucose. As a result, blood sugar levels rise and the body begins to store glucose as fat.

During menopause, when the level of estrogen in the blood naturally decreases, the body tries to obtain these hormones from other sources. One such source is fat cells. When estrogen levels decrease, the body tries to convert all energy sources into fat cells. This leads to weight gain.

How to prevent:

— Contact a gynecologist if you have symptoms of premenopause — for hormone replacement therapy;

— Give preference to healthy foods with vegetables, fruits and whole grain cereals;

- Quit alcohol;

- Avoid eating processed meat products - due to the presence of hidden fats in them.

6. Progesterone

Progesterone is another female hormone. To maintain normal function of the female reproductive system, progesterone and estrogen levels must be balanced. An excess in favor of one or the other hormone leads to various disorders. Progesterone levels decrease with the onset of menopause, as well as as a result of stress and taking hormonal contraceptives. A decrease in the level of this hormone leads to depression and weight gain.

How to prevent:

— Exercise regularly;

— For peace of mind, practice meditation and yoga in general;

- Protect yourself from stress.

Regular exercise will help bring the level of hormone production back to normal.

Photo: Sergey SHAKHIJANYAN

7. Leptin

This hormone is secreted by fat cells and regulates energy balance. Leptin levels increase after eating and appetite decreases. If you constantly overeat or abuse sweets, carbohydrates begin to be deposited as fat in the liver, abdominal wall, and thighs. As adipose tissue grows, it begins to secrete more and more leptin and the body stops responding to it. The signal of satiety stops reaching the brain, and a constant feeling of hunger arises.

How to prevent:

— Limit sweets, flour and other carbohydrate-containing foods. Eat fruits no more than 3 times a day (do not replace meals with them in a desire to lose weight);

— Add more vegetables to the menu;

- Avoid processed meat products;

— Drink more water;

8. Ghrelin

Ghrelin, known as the hunger hormone, is produced primarily in the stomach. True, from there it enters the brain and only there causes a feeling of hunger. Ghrelin levels increase before meals, as well as during a strict diet or fasting. With a lack of sleep, ghrelin levels increase. Also, too much of this hormone is released during stressful situations, and we begin to eat stress.

How to prevent:

— Do physical exercise, yoga;

- Monitor your mental balance;

- Drink a glass of water 20 minutes before meals;

- Eat regularly, but in moderation;

- Sleep at least 7 - 8 hours a day;

— Avoid carbonated drinks, since carbon dioxide from them, entering the stomach, causes increased formation of ghrelin.

Obesity and excess weight - symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome

Unlike the above-mentioned diseases, which can also occur in men, a typical female pathology leading to the development of overweight and obesity is polycystic ovary syndrome. This disease is associated with excessive production of androgens, that is, male sex hormones, which should be secreted physiologically in women in small quantities.

Therefore, most patients experience menstrual irregularities in the form of significantly longer cycles or even amenorrhea. On the other hand, menstruation occurs much less frequently, and without ovulation during the cycles. Patients have skin symptoms associated with hyperandrogenism - male hair on the face, chest, acne and androgenetic alopecia. In addition, about half of cases are associated with overweight or obesity.

Menstrual irregularities

Endocrinologists can only treat the symptoms of PCOS, such as menstrual irregularities or skin changes. Weight loss is then recommended, as is pharmacological treatment with two-component birth control pills or drugs that reduce androgen production or inhibition. It is impossible to completely get rid of polycystic disease.

Authorized Products

A diet for hormonal imbalance in women should contain mainly foods with a low glycemic index. These foods do not cause a sharp increase in blood sugar and insulin release:

• Eggs - can be eaten boiled and in the form of omelettes with vegetables.
• Seafood includes shrimp, squid, mussels, and octopus. They are prepared baked or boiled.
• Chicken breast, turkey fillet and rabbit meat are cooked boiled or baked, but without oil, you can immediately with vegetables. Adding oil increases the points.
• Green peas, mushrooms, onions, fresh vegetables, garlic, lettuce, herbs and different types of seaweed.
• Lean fish is baked or boiled with a minimum amount of salt, or with vegetables to get a complete dish.
• Fiber - a finished product can be purchased at any health food department. You can use it by adding it to dishes, as a separate dish with kefir or yogurt.
• Spices are allowed, but you need to remember that they stimulate the appetite, which is not advisable in weight loss programs - you can use mustard, horseradish, natural grape and apple cider vinegar.
• Low-fat dairy products (up to 2%) are used for second breakfast and afternoon snack.
• Lemon and lime juice can be used to dress salads, add to juices and tea.

The following products already have a “greater weight”, but are allowed:

• The berries are consumed in an amount of 100 g - as an independent dish or as an additive to cottage cheese.
• Boiled beans can be used as a dish or added to salads and stews.
• Vegetable oils should be alternated (sunflower, flaxseed, olive, walnuts, grape seeds) and use no more than 1 tablespoon per day for dressing salads and other dishes, as well as for baking.
• Boiled carrots and beets are consumed sparingly due to their high glycemic index.
• Nuts, seeds, olives, olives are used in salads and on their own.
• Dishes made from veal, beef, lean lamb and various parts of chicken - boiled, their calorie content is higher than that of chicken breast.
• It is better to consume by-products sparingly due to their high cholesterol content.
• From cereals, choose buckwheat, brown rice and oatmeal (all the others are possible, but they are a level higher).
• Give preference to low-calorie cheeses (less than 30%).
• Please note that dairy products with 4% fat content, sweet cheeses and yoghurts with additives have a higher point system.

Table of permitted products

Why are we getting fat? – emotional disorders

Overweight and obesity can also be the result of emotional disorders. The modern world imposes a very intense lifestyle, which affects the mental state of many of us.

Food is often the salvation from everyday problems. Patients eat stress because it brings them pleasure. However, over time, addiction to unhealthy eating habits sets in, and constant late-night snacking and consuming large amounts of sweets become the norm. This regimen quickly leads to weight gain and worsens the well-being and self-esteem of patients, which contributes to further nutritional problems. A vicious circle is created.

The only way to destroy this self-propelled wheel is to contact a good endocrinologist. Unfortunately, in this case, there is no miracle treatment or surgery that can effectively get rid of the problem of overweight and obesity without drugs and physical effort.

An important condition for successful therapy: in addition to normalizing weight, the patient must restore self-esteem and learn to cope with everyday problems, getting rid of disappointment in a better way than eating.

ONLINE REGISTRATION at the DIANA clinic

You can sign up by calling the toll-free phone number 8-800-707-15-60 or filling out the contact form. In this case, we will contact you ourselves.

If you find an error, please select a piece of text and press Ctrl+Enter

What to do to lose weight during menopause.

1. Keep count of calories. The method is very simple: you select products from the Internet or special applications on your mobile phone, add up their calorie content and create a menu. Ideally, it should not exceed 1200 calories.
2. Maintain hormonal balance. Preparations with phytoestrogens can alleviate the condition during menopause: “Klimadinon”, “Inoclim”, “Remens”, “Feminal”.
3. Maintain drinking regime. To combat hunger, drink at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day.
4. To refuse from bad habits. Quit smoking and your appearance will improve. Nicotine negatively affects blood vessels, thickens the blood and increases the risk of heart attacks.
5. Vitamins. Vitamins A, E, group B, and trace elements: zinc, potassium, magnesium, selenium help keep weight under control.
6. Consultation with a doctor. An examination and consultation with a gastroenterologist or nutritionist will help you adjust your diet so that your gastrointestinal tract does not suffer, but you also do not gain excess weight. The doctor also selects a personal caloric intake based on your parameters and activity.