3 Hormones That Can Influence Your Weight

It can be incredibly frustrating and discouraging to not see the scale budge when trying to lose weight OR to lose weight and then regain it all back.

Diet and exercise are two of the biggest influencers of weight loss/maintenance, but there are a variety of other factors that contribute to your weight no matter how healthy you eat or how hard you workout. 

These lesser known factors that can  affect our weight include rest, sleep, genetics, body’s unique physiology, mindset, medical history, or an imbalance in your body

I want to share 3 hormones that don’t get talked about in many health and fitness settings, but can significantly impact your weight.

Maintaining a healthy body weight is an on-going process – but can be made extra challenging if your hormones are not in balance. 

➡️ Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) 

This hormone regulates thyroid function and is important for regulating weight. 

Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland) can lead to slower metabolism, weight gain, and a higher body-mass index (BMI).

➡️ Sex hormone

Testing the sex hormones can help determine if PCOS – polycystic ovarian syndrome – which elevates testosterone and insulin levels, is the issue. 

➡️ Cortisol

Also known as the “stress” hormone or “fight or flight” hormone. This is an interesting hormone because it is released when we anticipate pain – not during the actual pain or stress.

One study actually found that practicing optimism decreased the amount of cortisol released during high-stress situations. You cannot always control the outcome of situations BUT perspective (i.e. optimism) is your choice. 

Having consistently high levels of cortisol can cause ulcers, high blood pressure, digestion problems, anxiety, trouble sleeping and weight gain.

If your weight has been stuck, perhaps asking your doctor to complete a blood panel and test your hormone levels would be helpful.

I am more than happy to discuss this topic more. Send me a PM if you would like to know more about hormones or have just been feeling stuck!