Marla Ahlgrimm on Weight Loss and Hormones

Being overweight has an impact on overall health and hormone balance, says Marla Ahlgrimm. For women who have extra weight to lose, even a modest decrease in the numbers on the scale can have a direct and measurable effect on hormones. Losing just a small percentage of body weight can help the body become more stable and better regulated.

Estrogen

Losing as little as 5% of your body weight can have a positive effect on estrogen levels. Fat tissue is hormonally active and produces estrogen. When the body carries excess fat, estrogen levels can rise higher than they should, which may cause exacerbated PMS symptoms. Marla Ahlgrimm says that weight loss can improve menstrual cycle regularity and may reduce heavy periods and painful cramping.

Insulin Sensitivity

When the body carries excess weight, it can become resistant to insulin. Marla Ahlgrimm explains that this means the body has to produce more insulin to keep blood sugar levels stable. With weight loss, insulin levels may decrease, and blood sugar can become more stable. Many women also report more consistent energy levels. Regulated insulin is especially important for women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Testosterone Levels

While testosterone is often associated with men, Marla Ahlgrimm explains that women naturally produce it as well. Increased body weight can raise testosterone levels, which may lead to acne, thinning hair, and increased facial or body hair.

Leptin and Hunger

Marla Ahlgrimm explains that leptin is a key hormone that signals to your brain that you have eaten enough. When body fat is high, leptin levels are also high, but the brain may not respond to it properly. This is known as leptin resistance. With weight loss, leptin sensitivity may improve, making hunger and fullness cues easier for the brain to interpret.

Cortisol

The production of the stress hormone cortisol is a vicious cycle for women carrying excess weight. Increased weight places stress on the body, and stress can raise cortisol levels. Elevated cortisol is associated with belly fat, poor sleep, and cravings for high-calorie foods, all of which are known to increase a woman’s weight. Marla Ahlgrimm says that gradual, sustained weight loss can help regulate cortisol levels.

There are many ways that weight loss can positively affect the body, but these are some of the most direct hormonal impacts in women. Marla Ahlgrimm notes that women who are looking to lose weight should do so under the guidance of their medical team and avoid crash or fad dieting, which can negatively affect overall health.