A hormonal imbalance can lead to increased weight gain, inflammation, chronic disease, and difficulty losing weight. Studies have shown that proper nutrition can improve hormone imbalances within the body; combined with a consistent exercise routine one can become even more stable. If you have been on a roller coaster ride of dieting and exercising with little success or have experienced some of these side effects (inflammation, irregular blood sugar levels, depression or hypothyroidism)…this may be an indication of hormonal imbalance.

Inflammation in the body may ultimately cause tissue destruction, digestive disorders, allergies, autoimmune disease, arthritis, asthma, eczema, acne, abdominal fat, headaches, depression or sinus conditions. Inflammation can often occur from an unclean diet, high levels of stress, and inactivity. For example, consuming a lot of processed foods (packaged items) that contain chemicals or other artificial ingredients can be a direct cause of inflammation in the body, this can ultimately lead to a hormonal imbalance.

Insulin is one of several hormones in the body; it is secreted by the pancreas and helps control our blood sugar levels. This hormone can become out of balance from too much stress, consumption of a high level of sugar or artificial sweeteners, prepackaged low-fat foods, inadequate intake of protein or fat, and low fiber intake. Too much insulin can occur when too much sugar is consumed; resulting in an influx of insulin release by the pancreas. This high insulin level can cause heart palpitations, sweating, poor concentration, weakness, anxiety, fogginess, fatigue, irritability, or impaired thinking. The human body often feels a sensation of hunger due to the reactive hypoglycemia that occurs from too much insulin being released. This vicious cycle of hormonal imbalance is recognized as insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome, which only increases our risk of diabetes and heart disease.

When the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, several systems in the body can slow down. This condition is known as hypothyroidism. Symptoms of the condition typically include fatigue, constipation, and weight gain. Some also experience extremely dry skin, brittle hair and hair loss, slower mental processing, chills, splitting nails, inability to sweat during exercise, infertility, poor memory, depression, decreased libido and difficulty to lose weight.

If you suspect you have a thyroid condition or a hormone imbalance, consider speaking with your doctor about metabolic assessments and blood tests. These tests will identify if you are suffering from any of these conditions. Also, evaluate your nutritional intake and exercise regimen. All these components will affect your weight loss or weight gain.