What’s really causing that weight gain and sluggish feeling? These hidden factors may surprise you.
You have too much cortisol
Your metabolism is how your body turns calories into energy, so when you
say you have a “slow metabolism,” you really mean you have unwanted weight
gain. But what causes this to happen? For some people, it could be too much
cortisol, known as the “stress hormone.” Normal amounts of cortisol can help
you burn fat if it’s working in tandem with other chemicals in your body. But
if you have too much cortisol—like if you’re really stressed out for a long
time—your body may think you’re under duress and could need extra energy, which
is why it clings to calories.
Your insulin levels are too high
Being
overweight is a cause of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes; and having
type 2 diabetes is linked with problems losing weight. According to the
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, insulin helps
the body use glucose for energy; if your body is “insulin resistant,” your body’s
cells can’t absorb the glucose, which results in high blood sugar. This may
also trick your body into thinking you’re fully stocked with energy, so your
metabolism slows down. Even if you’re not diabetic, other factors, like stress,
can raise your insulin levels. If you
are diabetic or Insulin resistant you can also use our amazing weight loss
program as we have diabetic modifications and in regards to insulin resistance
your weight loss will just be a little bit slower than usual.
Your thyroid is out
of whack
Your
thyroid gland, located at the base of your neck, helps regulate thyroid
hormones, which greatly affect your body’s metabolism. So, if you don’t make
enough of the hormone (a condition known as “underactive thyroid” or
“hypothyroidism”) your metabolism will slow down. Yet again you can also follow
our weight loss program if you have a problem with your thyroid, your weight
loss will just be a little but slower.
Your estragon is low
Women entering menopause may start asking, “Why is my metabolism so
slow?”
Lack of estrogen typically increases fat mass and decreases lean mass. Low
estrogen is one of the manifestations of menopause, which takes place at age
51.4 years.
Your testosterone is
low
Men
aren’t off the hook for hormone changes. With testosterone deficiency, as men
age their muscle mass declines and fat mass increases. Increasing vitamin D
levels may also help to raise testosterone.
You’re
taking medications
Certain drugs can
slow your metabolism. Long-term use of anti-inflammatory steroids, including
prednisone, can increase appetite and lead to overconsumption of calories.
They’re also associated with insulin resistance, higher blood glucose, and fat
storage. Some studies have shown antidepressants to be linked with weight gain
due to a decrease in the body’s basal metabolic rate and an increase in
appetite. Beta blockers to treat high blood pressure slow heart rate and gives
you less energy for exercise.