How Hormones Affect Weight: Understanding Thyroid, PCOS, and Menopause
- Doctor Anywhere Team
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
Managing weight is often seen as a matter of diet and exercise, but for many of us, there’s another factor at play: hormones. Hormones act as chemical messengers that regulate metabolism, appetite, and fat storage. When they are imbalanced, it can be harder to lose weight, or easier to gain it, even with healthy habits.
Let’s take a look at three common hormonal conditions that affect weight: thyroid disorders, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and menopause.
Thyroid and Weight
The thyroid gland, located in your neck, produces hormones that control metabolism—the process by which your body converts food into energy.
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid): Slows metabolism, often leading to weight gain, fatigue, and sensitivity to cold.
Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid): Speeds up metabolism, sometimes causing sudden weight loss, anxiety, and palpitations.
For Filipinos, goiter (enlargement of the thyroid) is a public health concern, often linked to iodine deficiency in the past. Today, thyroid disorders are more commonly linked to autoimmune diseases or lifestyle factors.
What you can do:
Get your thyroid checked if you experience unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or mood swings.
Follow a healthy diet, and take medications as prescribed by your doctor.
PCOS and Weight
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition among women of reproductive age. It is caused by an imbalance in reproductive hormones, leading to irregular periods, acne, and ovarian cysts.
One major challenge with PCOS is insulin resistance, where the body struggles to use insulin effectively. This often results in weight gain, especially around the abdomen, and increases the risk of diabetes.
What you can do:
Maintain a balanced diet that includes whole grains, lean protein, and a variety of vegetables.
Engage in regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity.
Consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and management, which may include medication.
Menopause and Weight
For women, menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and marks the end of menstruation. During this time, the body produces less estrogen, which can slow metabolism and lead to fat accumulation, particularly around the abdomen.
Other changes include loss of muscle mass, sleep disturbances, and mood shifts, all of which can make weight management more difficult.
What you can do:
Stay active with both cardio and strength training to maintain muscle mass.
Focus on portion control and nutrient-rich foods.
Seek medical advice for symptoms like hot flashes, sleep problems, or severe weight gain.
Hormonal conditions like thyroid disorders, PCOS, and menopause can significantly affect weight, but they can be managed with the right medical care and lifestyle adjustments.
If you notice sudden or unexplained changes in your weight, don’t ignore it. Your hormones may be the reason.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Leo San Diego is the content creator at Doctor Anywhere Philippines, where she specializes in making health information clear and easy to understand. With nearly a decade of writing experience, she has crafted everything from corporate communications to creative content.
She works with medical professionals to know the latest health trends, and health tips. Her goal is simple: to make reliable health information accessible and helpful for everyone. Outside of work, she enjoys baking brioche and other pastries, believing that taking care of your health includes enjoying rest days and good, thoughtfully prepared food.
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