Discover the Shocking Habit That Might Be Sabotaging Your Weight Loss Goals!
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As we age, our bodies undergo a myriad of changes, and for those of us over 60, weight management can become an increasingly challenging task. It's not uncommon to find ourselves puzzled when the numbers on the scale refuse to budge despite our best efforts to maintain a healthy diet and stay active. But before you blame your willpower or the effectiveness of your exercise routine, a surprising factor could be undermining your weight loss goals: your hormones.
Understanding the Hormonal Influence on Weight
The role of hormones in weight control is often underestimated, especially as we move into our forties, fifties, and beyond. Dietitian Susie Burrell sheds light on this critical aspect, explaining that our bodies house over 200 different hormones, each influencing various functions such as mood, sex drive, fertility, appetite, energy, and metabolism.
Key Hormones Affecting Weight
Among the numerous hormones, a few stand out for their direct impact on weight management. Ghrelin and leptin regulate appetite, cortisol is linked to stress and fat storage, and oestrogen influences where we store body fat. However, insulin is the primary regulator of glucose and fat metabolism in the body. Insulin resistance, a condition that becomes more common after weight gain, can make it significantly harder to lose weight. It affects where we store body fat and how well we metabolize glucose from carbohydrates, ultimately influencing our ability to burn stored fat.
The Perimenopause Complication
For women, the hormonal landscape becomes even more complex during perimenopause. As oestrogen levels decline, metabolism slows down, often leading to central weight gain. This shift can exacerbate insulin issues and make weight loss more challenging, increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Taking Action Against Hormonal Weight Gain
If you're eating well and exercising but still struggling to lose weight, particularly around the abdomen, it may be indicative of insulin and glucose regulation issues. Symptoms such as low mood, irritability, poor sleep, unexplained weight changes, and extreme fatigue also warrant medical attention.
Diet's Role in Hormonal Balance
While medication may be necessary for some, diet plays a crucial role in managing glucose and insulin levels. Burrell recommends meals that include protein, two to three cups of salad or vegetables, and a small portion of high-quality carbohydrates every three to four hours. Limiting high-carbohydrate meals can help stabilize glucose and insulin levels, aiding in hunger control.
Staying Healthy in the Age of COVID-19
In the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining overall health is more important than ever. Social distancing, wearing masks, and staying home when symptomatic remain crucial in protecting ourselves and others. Vaccinations, boosters, and antivirals are also key preventive measures, especially for those in high-risk groups.
In conclusion, if you're over 60 and struggling with weight loss, it's time to consider the hormonal factors at play. By understanding and addressing these, you can take more effective steps towards achieving your health and weight goals. Remember, it's not just about diet and exercise; it's about the intricate balance of your body's internal chemistry.
Understanding the Hormonal Influence on Weight
The role of hormones in weight control is often underestimated, especially as we move into our forties, fifties, and beyond. Dietitian Susie Burrell sheds light on this critical aspect, explaining that our bodies house over 200 different hormones, each influencing various functions such as mood, sex drive, fertility, appetite, energy, and metabolism.
Dietitian Susie Burrell says understanding hormones is key to weight loss, especially with age. Credit: Shutterstock
Key Hormones Affecting Weight
Among the numerous hormones, a few stand out for their direct impact on weight management. Ghrelin and leptin regulate appetite, cortisol is linked to stress and fat storage, and oestrogen influences where we store body fat. However, insulin is the primary regulator of glucose and fat metabolism in the body. Insulin resistance, a condition that becomes more common after weight gain, can make it significantly harder to lose weight. It affects where we store body fat and how well we metabolize glucose from carbohydrates, ultimately influencing our ability to burn stored fat.
The Perimenopause Complication
For women, the hormonal landscape becomes even more complex during perimenopause. As oestrogen levels decline, metabolism slows down, often leading to central weight gain. This shift can exacerbate insulin issues and make weight loss more challenging, increasing the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Taking Action Against Hormonal Weight Gain
If you're eating well and exercising but still struggling to lose weight, particularly around the abdomen, it may be indicative of insulin and glucose regulation issues. Symptoms such as low mood, irritability, poor sleep, unexplained weight changes, and extreme fatigue also warrant medical attention.
Diet's Role in Hormonal Balance
While medication may be necessary for some, diet plays a crucial role in managing glucose and insulin levels. Burrell recommends meals that include protein, two to three cups of salad or vegetables, and a small portion of high-quality carbohydrates every three to four hours. Limiting high-carbohydrate meals can help stabilize glucose and insulin levels, aiding in hunger control.
Staying Healthy in the Age of COVID-19
In the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining overall health is more important than ever. Social distancing, wearing masks, and staying home when symptomatic remain crucial in protecting ourselves and others. Vaccinations, boosters, and antivirals are also key preventive measures, especially for those in high-risk groups.
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