Hormone Replacement Therapy for Weight Loss – Gain Right Insights: Weight loss is a struggle for many, no matter the type of diet and exercise they undergo, sometimes the scale doesn’t show any positive changes. Of course, there are many reasons which let you gain extra pounds and restrict you from losing that. Those who are seeking ways to lose weight probably would have heard of ‘hormone replacement therapy for weight loss’.
So, what is this? Will it help you to lose pounds?
Hormone Replacement Therapy – What to Know
What are hormones? These are the chemicals that exist within the body and are generated by glands of the endocrine system. They are the signaling elements that transmit the message throughout the body and ensure the proper functioning of the body. Right from emotions, hunger, and mood swings to complex processes such as reproduction are greatly controlled by the segregation of hormones.
Hormone Replacement Therapy or HRT is a treatment where the person will take hormones in order to replace those hormones which have not been generated by the body. Typically, this hormone replacement therapy for weight loss is suggested for women who undergo the menopause stage.
Hormone replacement therapy is also known by the term menopausal hormone therapy/ estrogen replacement therapy. Estrogen and progesterone are the major hormones used in HRT.
Hormone Replacement Therapy For Weight Loss
Do you know? Just by replenishing the hormones that have been lost and via reversing the hormone imbalance, you can lose weight. From certain studies, it is clear that this HRT treatment is well-effective at reducing belly fat. This therapy helps in regulating hormones and metabolism and makes it a successful part of weight loss.
Women when in the menopause stage will experience decreased levels of estrogen which probably leads to increased weight and belly fat. By replacing these decreasing/lost estrogen hormones, women can lose weight. Since HRT involves the regulation of metabolism, it also helps to burn calories and thus aids in reduced appetite.
How Does HRT Work?
With the support of the regulation of specific hormones that build weight, weight loss can be achieved. Some of such hormones that are involved in weight loss are thyroid, estrogen, cortisol, testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). In general, compounded hormone therapy and bioidentical hormone replacement (BHRT) are involved in weight loss treatment.
- Your appetite is reduced with hormone therapy. So, you will not be impacted by overeating.
- The Estrogen hormone works with the brain and helps in decreasing hunger. Thus your calorie intake is lessened.
- Since estrogen levels are brought to higher amounts, the changes related to lower levels of estrogen are avoided. So, you can have better calorie consumption
- Increased metabolism means you can sustain weight loss in the long term.
- Also, with improved metabolism, you will realize higher energy levels. If you are energetic and feel motivated, it is no longer a worry to stick to your fitness goals.
Who Has To Consider Hormone Therapy For Weight Loss?
Though HRT is an effective treatment, it is not the right fit for all. This can be the right treatment solution for:
- For those who have gained weight due to the start of the menopause stage
- Persons with excess abdominal fat
- If you have estrogen deficiency
- Difficulty in shedding weight through diet and exercise alone
- If you have issues with hormonal imbalances
- Stopped menstruating at an early age
Side Effects Of Hormone Replacement Therapy
Some of the side effects which probably occur during the initial three months of HRT include:
- Feeling sick
- Indigestion, stomach cramps, or bloating
- Headaches and nausea
- Swollen or tender breasts
- Skin irritation
- Irregular menstruation
How Long Will Hormone Therapy Take To Work?
In order to feel the effects of hormone therapy, it will take around 2 weeks of time. Typically, the physician will recommend a 3-month period of trial with the hormone therapy and based on the response of the body, subsequent dosage levels will be determined.
How Can You Know Whether You Have Hormone Imbalance?
Those struggling with weight loss and not achieving success with diet and exercise may have hormone imbalance issues. Below are the common symptoms that indicate such conditions:
- Menstrual cycle irregularities
- Mood swings
- Excessive dry skin
- Low sex drive
- Sleep disorders
- Chronic headaches
- Difficulty in remembering things
- Joint pain
Types Of Hormones Useful In Losing Weight
In fact, the hormones that are helpful in losing weight are determined based on the existing weight of a person and his/her personal goals. When you have a healthy diet accompanied by a regular exercise routine, the below hormones are helpful to lose weight.
- Testosterone
- Progesterone
- Estrone
- Human Growth Hormone (HGH)
- DHEA
- Insulin
- Leptin
- Cortisol
By replacing the optimal level of hormones via bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and achieving the right hormonal balance, weight loss can be accomplished.
Effectiveness Of HRT Compared With Other Alternatives
If hormone imbalance is the root cause of weight gain, then Hormone Replacement Therapy is the best solution. Although, diet and exercises are good to lose weight, yet, if you have issues with hormones, you can’t reach the ideal weight.
Compounded hormone therapy and HRT treatments are found to be more effective when compared with other weight loss treatments, as they do not have any serious side effects.
Various Types Of Hormone Replacement Therapy
Some of the ways through which HRT is administered are:
- Tablets
- Estradiol gel or spray
- Skin patches
- Implants (inserted under the skin)
- Vaginal estrogen
- Testosterone gel
How To Maximize The Benefits Of Hormone Replacement Therapy?
Through rebalancing the hormones, the functions of the body can be brought to normal and help in weight loss. Ensure that your HRT is combined with the right diet plan, and exercise routines and that overall you have an active lifestyle to get the most out of the treatment.
You should be away from taking processed foods and carbohydrate intake. If you are not sure whether HRT is right for you, it is good to consult with your doctor. He will analyze your body, look for individual symptoms, check for the risk factors, and find out whether it is the right method for you.
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