The mind and body benefits of hormone therapy
Reduces stress
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help reduce stress levels by balancing hormones that play a role in stress. Hormonal imbalances can be a cause of stress, or stress can cause hormonal imbalances. Hormone therapies can also help with anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress disorder.
Relieves anxiety
HRT can help with anxiety by restoring hormone balance in the body. Hormone imbalances can cause a range of mental and physical health issues, including anxiety and depression. For example, estrogen levels can affect how susceptible some women are to anxiety, and progesterone can trigger the amygdala, which is responsible for fight-or-flight responses.
Boost energy
Hormonal imbalances can cause fatigue and low energy, especially during menopause when the body's natural hormone production decreases. HRT can also improve sleep quality, which can positively impact energy levels the next day.
The mind and body benefits of weight reduction
Reduces stress
- Stress can trigger the body's hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which releases cortisol, a hormone that increases energy by releasing fatty acids and glucose from the liver. Cortisol levels can also be triggered by foods high in fat, sugar, and salt, especially processed carbs. Weight loss can help reverse this effect.
- When the body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, they can suppress nonessential functions like digestion and the immune system. This can lead to unhealthy weight loss patterns like skipping meals or overeating, which can then make stress worse.
Improved sleep
- Being overweight can lead to sleep apnea, which can make it hard to breathe and cause frequent awakenings. Losing weight can improve sleep quality, which can lead to more energy during the day.
- Sleep helps regulate hormones that affect hunger and appetite. When people don't get enough sleep, they may feel hungrier and less satisfied after meals.
- Insulin resistance can occur after just a few nights of reduced sleep, and it can lead to weight gain and Type 2 diabetes.
Boost energy
- Increased fitness: Being fitter overall can lead to more stamina, especially if you exercise as part of your weight loss plan.
- More efficient body: Carrying extra weight can be draining, but losing weight can make your body more efficient and require less energy to perform tasks.
- Losing weight can help reduce fatigue between meals.