9 Hormones That Need To Be Balanced To Make Weight Loss Easier

[LoShiNi]

Many women know how easy it is to gain extra pounds, and how hard it is to shed them and maintain a healthy weight. Sometimes, our hormones are to blame for the unwanted weight gain. Hormones are substances that regulate various processes in our body, including metabolism. And when they are off balance, you may find yourself frustrated because your weight loss efforts don’t pay off.

Below is the list of 9 hormones that you need to balance in order not to put on more extra pounds and start losing them more easily:


1. Insulin

Insulin is a hormone that helps your cells to absorb glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream; it’s also responsible for fat storage. When your insulin is too high for too long, it can lead to weight gain and even obesity. Here’s what you can do to balance it:


- eat less sugar;

- consume less carbohydrates;

- get more calories from protein;

- consume more healthy fats, such as omega-3;

- get enough exercise;

- make sure you get enough magnesium;

- drink green tea.


2. Leptin




Leptin is a hormone that signals your brain when you’re full. When you have extra weight, you probably also have leptin resistance, in which case your brain doesn’t get the signal that you’ve had enough to eat. Here’s how you can increase leptin sensitivity:

- refrain from eating foods that cause inflammation, such as sugary drinks and foods that contain trans fats;



- include more anti-inflammatory foods, such as fatty fish, in your diet;

- exercise often;

- sleep well;

- ask your doctor about fish oil and alpha-lipoic acid supplements – they may also help.


3. Ghrelin

Ghrelin can be called “hunger hormone” – it signals your brain that you need to eat. In overweight and obese people, this hormone doesn’t work the way it should. But there are ways to help you improve its function:

- consume less foods and drinks high in sugar;

- eat more protein, preferably at every meal.


4. Cortisol

Cortisol is released in your body in response to stress. And a good diet isn’t enough to bring its levels back to normal. Try these tips to bring down your levels of this hormone:

- follow a healthy meal plan, avoid crash diets;

- try relaxation techniques and activities, such as meditation or simply listening to calm music;

- make sure to get enough sleep.


5. Estrogen




Estrogen imbalance leads to weight gain, either when it’s too high or too low. This explains gaining more pounds during and after menopause when estrogen levels decrease. Try this to normalize your estrogen levels:

- eat more fiber and cruciferous vegetables;

- try flaxseeds – there’s evidence they may help balance estrogen;

- exercise more.


6. Neuropeptide Y (NPY)

When your levels of this hormone are too high, you tend to overeat and gain weight, especially around your waist. Here’s what you can do to bring down its levels:

- consume enough protein;

- avoid fasting for too long;

- eat more soluble fiber.


7. Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1)

This hormone helps regulate your blood sugar and makes you feel satiated. To raise your levels of GLP-1, try this:

- eat more protein, anti-inflammatory foods, and leafy greens;

- you can also try probiotic supplements – discuss this option with your doctor.


8. Cholecystokinin (CCK)

Raising your levels of cholecystokinin can help you eat less. And here’s how you can do it:

- make sure your every meal includes protein;

- eat more healthy fats;

- consume more fiber.


9. Peptide YY (PYY)




Having enough peptide YY is important for controlling your appetite. Here’s how you can increase its levels:

- eat less carbohydrates;

- eat more protein and fiber.


If you have already tried the strategies described above, but they didn’t work, consult your doctor. He or she may order tests to check your hormones.