Jun 2, 2023
Let's talk adrenals…
Hormones produced by the adrenal glands, such as cortisol and aldosterone, play a role in metabolism and fluid balance.
Imbalances in adrenal hormones, such as adrenal insufficiency or excessive cortisol production, can affect metabolism, blood sugar regulation, and electrolyte balance.
Adrenal insufficiency can also lead to imbalances in water and electrolytes, including sodium and potassium. These imbalances can affect hydration, fluid balance, and electrolyte regulation, potentially impacting metabolicprocesses and overall cellular function.
Leptin and Ghrelin
Leptin and ghrelin are hormones that regulate appetite and satiety. Leptin, produced by fat cells, helps regulate energy balance by signaling fullness and influencing metabolic rate. Ghrelin, produced mainly by the stomach, stimulates hunger.
Hormonal imbalances in leptin and ghrelin can disrupt appetite control, leading to overeating or increased food cravings, which can impact metabolic health.
Human Growth Hormone
Human Growth hormone (HGH) is involved in regulating metabolism, body composition, and energy utilization. An imbalance in growth hormone levels, such as decreased production or excessive secretion, can affect metabolism by altering fat metabolism, muscle growth, and overall energy balance which makes it play a major role in managing body composition, muscle mass, and fat utilization.
Cortisol
Cortisol is a stress hormone produced by your adrenal glands that, if you've been reading my posts for a while, you know can affect metabolism pretty significantly. Chronic stress or high levels of stress hormone release can lead to increased cortisol production. Elevated cortisol levels can contribute to insulin resistance, promote muscle breakdown, and encourage the storage of fat, usually in the abdominal region. Please note not all stress has a negative effect on metabolism - I'm more-so talking about prolonged high levels of stress and chronic stress.
Sex Hormones
Sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, have a huge impact on metabolism just like the previous hormones. Imbalances in these hormones, such as estrogen dominance or low testosterone levels, can affect body composition, fat distribution, and muscle mass, leading to changes in metabolic rate and energy expenditure.
Why should you care?
If you believe you struggle with a hormonal imbalance and it is causing you to keep on unwanted body fat, has made you plateau with fat loss, or overall you just feel like something is up, DM me "Hormonal Imbalance" and let's start a conversation! It might be the smallest lifestyle fix that's needed.