If you’re a male trying to lose weight, there are several things you can do to achieve healthier body weight and a better overall lifestyle. One main problem that many men experience when losing weight is a hormonal imbalance. As you age, the level of estrogen in your body may increase, which can decrease your metabolic rate, causing weight gain. There are several other possible reasons why you could experience weight loss problems including certain medications, stress, and even a lack of consistent sleep. As for estrogen, let’s take a closer look at why this hormone can affect your weight.
Hormone Levels in Men
Both men and women have certain levels of testosterone and estrogen in their bodies. When these hormones get out of balance, it can cause a plethora of health-related problems. While estrogen seems to be something that’s exclusively looked at in women, many men may have too much of it in their system. When this happens, a wide range of symptoms can occur. Some of the most common symptoms of high levels of estrogen in men include reduced brain function, problems with sexual function or libido, issues with cholesterol regulation, and even problems with cardiovascular function. For men, it’s essential that they maintain a healthy hormonal balance for better overall health, and this includes a healthy weight.
Estrogen and Weight
For most men, the correct balance of both testosterone and estrogen are in good balance. However, when the level of estrogen increases, it can create several problems. One of these includes enlargement of the breasts, which can make a man look overweight. You may also feel tired and lose muscle mass, making it more difficult to exercise. Over time, this lack of exercise can contribute to weight gain. You could also lose muscle mass, meaning that the foods you eat will more easily convert to fat since muscle is a major fat-burner in the body. Some men are also at a higher risk of type 2 diabetes if they have elevated levels of estrogen.
So, what causes these hormonal imbalances? Most commonly, aging is the culprit since older men usually have higher levels of estrogen. Some men may even have higher levels than women who are postmenopausal. Losing lean muscle while increasing fat contributes to obesity, and more fat actually converts testosterone to estrogen, making treatment more difficult.
If you’re concerned about weight loss and your hormonal balance, call Revive Medical Center in Lawrenceville, Georgia today for a free consultation.
