Hormonal Imbalances and Your Diet

Three Hormones that Affect Your Diet

• Estrogen and Androgens (including testosterone/DHEA) –  Certain medications, liver abnormalities, and use of drugs and alcohol can cause increased estrogen levels that lead to hair loss, bloating, and increased weight. Symptoms of high estrogen include memory loss, headaches, mood swings, decreased sex drive, and fatigue. Androgens including testosterone and DHEA can also cause hormonal deficiencies in the diet. Androgen excess is seen in polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, in which women may suffer from infertility, obesity, and acne. Androgen excess, especially DHEA, is related to increased weight and lowered metabolism.

Holistic Nutritionist on Long Island

References

1. Cortisol (the stress hormone) – Cortisol levels are released by the adrenal gland during stress. Lack of sleep, high levels of caffeine and alcohol, and even skipping meals can cause your cortisol levels to increase. Sugar-release triggered by high cortisol release stays in the bloodstream instead of entering cells for energy. This stimulates the brain to increase appetite and stress-eat. Hypercortisolism may be manifested as increased abdominal fat, high blood pressure, and easy bruising. Our specialists at Holistic Heart Centers can provide you with a thorough evaluation and our FIT In Your GENES® Weight Loss Program to help you get back on track.
2. Thyroid hormone (released by the thyroid gland) – Hypothyroidism is a common cause of weight gain in adults.  When your thyroid hormone is low, you may experience fatigue, weight gain, brittle hair, and decreased tolerance to heat.  Your metabolism is significantly slowed down and you may need to modify your diet based on this diagnosis. A good start is to visit our holistic nutritionist on Long Island at Holistic Heart Centers.  Foods rich in iodine, selenium, and zinc, for example, may be necessary to activate your thyroid hormones.