Hormonal imbalance and weight gain can go hand in hand. A person who has gained a recognizable amount of weight should examine what is causing this gain. If there is no problem with diet (excessive sugar or fat intake), the problem may be because of various hormonal concerns.

One such problem that could result in an increase in a person’s weight is hypothyroidism. In this condition a patient’s thyroid is impaired and produces less hormones. This results in a reduction of the body’s ability to metabolize food. Often it is accompanied by a loss of appetite. Sufferers of hypothyroidism may complain that they are eating much less but still gaining weight. Water retention is also a problem associated with the condition as the body takes more time to process fluids. Some symptoms of hypothyroidism are fatigue, drying skin, memory lapses, slowed speech, and headaches.

In the condition of Cushing’s syndrome, the hormone cortisol is increased, leading to hormone imbalance weight gain in the following areas of the body: the face, upper back, and abdomen. With this syndrome, the arms and legs do not receive a proportionate amount of weight accumulation. Symptoms such as weakness, easy bruising, and menstrual irregularities may be experienced by people with Cushing’s syndrome.

Specific to women, menopause may lead to hormone imbalance weight gain. The reduction of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone may lead to a decrease in the metabolic process. When these levels are reduced, a woman’s body searches for other sources of estrogen. As this hormone is stored in fat deposits, calories are converted to fat instead of energy, causing an increase in weight. Progesterone reduction is to blame for increased water retention and bloating. While this hormone is not responsible for weight gain, the symptoms involved can make a person think they have gained weight because clothes fit tighter. Lowered testosterone levels are normal with aging and lower the rate at which the body metabolizes food.

In addition to unexpected weight gain, changing hormone levels can also cause weight loss. In reduced levels, the hormone insulin can be responsible for a person’s weight loss. In addition, a hyperactive thyroid may produce the same effects. If a person believes that hormones may be the cause for weight loss or gain, the first step in addressing the problem is to address a local physician. The physician will conduct several tests to determine which hormones are not at normal levels. Depending on which hormones are abnormal, different treatment medications may be prescribed. In addition to medical solutions, regular exercise can help a person regain normal hormone levels while dealing with weight problems at the same time. Diet modification may be another way of regulating a person’s weight. Intake of excess sugars or fat can be the cause of exaggerated or lowered hormone levels. Regardless of the cause, hormonal imbalance and weight gain can both be treated, either by behavioral changes or through the use of effective medications.