Hormone balance is critical to maintain a healthy weight. A large percentage of us who are overweight suffer from abdominal obesity - a very risky kind of body fat. Men with low levels of free testosterone find it extremely difficult to lose weight, especially belly fat. This becomes exacerbated if they also have excess estrogen combined with low levels of free testosterone (hormone imbalance). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels also impact fat retention in your abdominal region. Low levels of DHEA (hormone imbalance) usually result in a higher probability of accumulating extra fat around your middle.
Blood Tests to Determine Your Hormone Balance
How do I know I might have low levels of DHEA or free testosterone or excess levels of estrogen? The simple answer is a blood test. Your doctor can review the results of your lab tests and determine if your hormones levels are normal.
Restore Hormone Balance
If you need to restore your hormone balance, there are a number of prescription drugs and creams that can restore your testosterone and estrogen to normal levels. DHEA levels can be raised with over the counter supplements.
Supplementation to Restore Hormone Balance
There is a way to reduce excess estrogen in men and boost free testosterone at the same time. It is by taking specifically designed formulas of plant extracts which inhibit the aromatase enzyme - this enzyme converts testosterone into estrogen. Additionally, these plant extracts can decrease the level of the sex hormone-binding globulin. Globulin binds with free testosterone and is one cause of decreased free testosterone in aging men. Restoring hormone balance - estrogen and free testosterone levels - eliminates one cause of weight loss resistance.
Thyroid Hormone Levels
Your thyroid hormone levels should also be checked. Your metabolic rates are controlled by your thyroid hormone. Those deficient in thyroid hormone (hormone imbalance) can be prescribed appropriate medicine to increase the level of this hormone in your body. It is extremely difficult to lose weight if you have low levels of thyroid hormone (hormone imbalance). The two most common thyroid drugs are Armour and Cytomel. Armour contains both T4 and T3 while Cytomel contains only T3. The thyroid gland produces several hormones - T1, T2, T3 and T4. The different numbers refer to the number of iodine molecules present in the hormone.
Non-Prescription Assistance with Thyroid Imbalance
Some doctors recommend intense exercise to their patients with low thyroid hormone levels (hormone imbalance). Iodine levels can be increased with seaweed extracts that has been shown to be beneficial in treating low levels of thyroid hormone. Another supplement to consider is coconut oil. I am amazed at the benefits of coconut oil. It got a bad rap back in the 80's and is actually extremely good for you. I use it instead of cooking oil often. Extra virgin coconut oil capsules are also available.
Estrogen and menopause
Women in menopause also suffer from an increase in belly fat due to dropping levels of estrogen (hormone imbalance). Natural estrogen replacement, rather than horse-derived estrogen drugs, have been effective in weight loss, particularly around your abdomen. Consult your physician to determine the right bioidentical hormone replacement therapy.
Use the Internet for Researching Your Options
The internet provides a lot of information for restoring your hormone balance. I extract it, research it further, analyze it, look further to see if I get confirmation - good or bad - which supplements, treatments, therapies, etc. are good for various ailments and conditions. It's your health - take charge and be able to ask intelligent questions when you see your doctor. Get the blood tests needed to verify your hormone balance. It is a critical part of determining what you really need to do to lose weight.
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