Catch hormonal weight gain and other hormonal imbalance effects with easy-to-spot signs. PCOS and menopause can cause weight gain, especially in the belly, hips, and thighs.
Ever wondered what are major signs of hormonal imbalance and why does it make weight loss harder to achieve?
When hormones become imbalanced, your metabolism, appetite, and fat storage are affected.
Your belly might store more fat than other parts of your body. You might feel hungry more often. Bloating might be a common feeling throughout the day.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Women with PCOS often experience weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, as well as insulin resistance, which can further contribute to more weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
Signs of hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS:
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Excess hair growth
- Acne
- Weight gain
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Diagnosed with PCOS or not, a lot of women experience insulin resistance. Higher levels of insulin in the bloodstream lead to the overproduction of androgens in the ovaries, contributing to hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS.
A diet high in refined carbohydrates like white bread and potato chips should be avoided.
A balanced diet for PCOS often includes:
- Low-glycemic index foods like legumes, sweet potatoes, and quinoa to help manage blood sugar levels.
- Healthy fats like avocado, almonds, walnuts, olive oil, and chia seeds and lean proteins like skinless poultry, fish, tofu, and legumes for improved insulin sensitivity.
- High-fiber foods like broccoli, brown rice, and barley to support digestive health and manage blood sugar.
- Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables like blueberries, strawberries, oranges, tomatoes, spinach, kale, and bell peppers to combat inflammation.
Menopause
During menopause, estrogen levels decline, which can lead to changes in body composition, including increased abdominal fat and decreased lean muscle mass.
Signs of hormonal imbalances associated with menopause:
- Irregular periods
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Mood swings
- Vaginal dryness
It’s important to focus on a diet rich in nutrients and supportive of hormonal balance.
A balanced diet for menopause often includes:
- Whole grains. Choose whole grains over refined carbohydrates (whole wheat bread over white bread and sweet potatoes over potato chips).
- Incorporating low-glycemic index foods
- Healthy fats along with lean proteins for extra hormonal support.
- High-fiber foods to support digestive health
- Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables
Managing Hormonal Imbalance and Weight Gain
While hormonal imbalances can make weight management challenging, there are steps beyond dieting you can take to support hormone balance and promote a healthy weight.
Lifestyle adjustments such as regular exercise, balanced diet, stress management, and adequate sleep can help support hormone balance and improve overall health.
Additionally, certain medications or hormonal therapies may be prescribed to help regulate hormones and manage symptoms of conditions like PCOS or menopause.
Marie France specializes in weight loss solutions and offers weight management programs for women experiencing by PCOS, menopause, and other hormonal disorders.
Typically, patients with PCOS and menopause might have a harder time losing fat in the belly, hips, and thighs.
With your condition in mind, our slimming consultants can offer a personalized program to target those areas.
Remember, addressing hormonal imbalances is not just about losing weight; it’s about restoring balance to the body and improving overall well-being.
Consult with Marie France for a healthier you!
