In America, 65% of the population is overweight and a third of the population suffers from obesity. In 1960, the average female weighed 140 pounds, with the average male weighing 166 lbs. By 2010, these averages had risen to 166 lbs for females and 197 for males.

Many people believe that weight gain is controlled entirely by exercise; however, the biggest component to weight gain is actually what you eat. As humans, the most important factor when controlling our weight is taking care of our gut health.

The Relationship Between Hormones, Gut Health, and Weight Gain

Optimal Bio’s Medical Director, Dr. Greg Brannon, shared that 90% of our serotonin is made in the gut. Our gut health is what controls and monitors our weight gain and brain chemistry. Knowing this, we aim to stress the importance of taking proper care of your gut.

Among many hormones in our bodies, insulin is one of the most important when it comes to weight loss and weight gain. Insulin is responsible for storing or utilizing blood sugar. After eating a meal, insulin is secreted into the bloodstream and keeps our blood sugar levels stable throughout the day. Insulin is also responsible for fat storage. When there is an imbalance of insulin in our bodies, weight gain occurs. One way to fix this is to stop overeating the foods that cause insulin resistance. Dr. Brannon suggest the following diet adjustments:

• Restrict carbohydrates in your diet
• Consume omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish
• Consume adequate amounts of protein

When there is a hormonal imbalance in your body, it can be shown through unexpected shifts in your weight. Here are some other hormonal shifts that can result in weight gain:

• Shifts in estrogen levels: A decrease in estrogen is linked to lower muscle mass and increased fat stores for women. In addition, higher estrogen levels can lead to endometriosis.
• A decrease in testosterone: For both men and women, a decrease in testosterone reduces muscle mass which lowers the body's metabolic rate causing weight gain.
• Thyroid deficiency: An under-active thyroid hormone slows the body’s ability to burn calories.
• Stress: Uncontrollable stress levels cause an increase in the hormones cortisol and adrenaline which can lead to high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, and weight gain.

Hormones are your body’s messenger, controlling growth, reproduction, metabolism, and even your mood. Simple changes in your diet and exercise will not reverse hormonal weight gain. Oftentimes, hormonal replacement therapy can be a viable option.

How Can We Help

Optimal Bio is the leading provider of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy services, which help balance hormones that directly affect your body’s health. Optimal Bio is focused on holistic health and wellness in all aspects of life. If you are unhappy with your weight and are interested in hormone replacement therapy, we’re here to help. Contact our office today or visit us at one of our six locations: Cary, Southern Pines, Wilmington, Charlotte, Charleston, and Charlottesville.