Estrogen, Estradiol, & Weight Gain

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How Estradiol and Other Forms of Estrogen Can Cause Weight Gain

Estrogen is a vital hormone that is produced in a woman’s body. There are three different kinds of estrogen, each with its own specific function.

  • Estradiol is the main estrogen produced during childbearing years. 
  • Estrone is the second most prevalent type of estrogen that’s produced during the childbearing years.
  • Estriol is the pregnancy hormone.

A woman who is receiving hormone replacement therapy can experience weight gain as a side effect. This is especially true when the ratio of estrogen to other hormones is too high. It is crucial that a health professional monitor these levels to achieve a proper balance. 

 

When hormone levels drop, usually due to menopause, weight levels can fluctuate. When estradiol levels drop, the result may be weight gain.

 

It is important to understand how fluctuating levels of estrogen hormones affect your body.

The Relationship between Estradiol, Estrogen and Weight Gain

Estradiol is the main estrogen hormone. When a woman begins menopause, estradiol production decreases. Since this is the hormone that aids in appetite, metabolism and weight regulation, weight gain is more likely to occur. Lower levels of the estrogen hormones make losing weight more difficult. On the flip side, if too much estrogen is present, this can cause an increase in fluid retention and appetite. Finding the perfect hormone balance is key to maintaining a healthy weight.


Despite how our bodies react to “the change”, there is hope! Small but consistent changes can work wonders. 

What You Can Do to Counteract Weight Gain

There are many things a woman can do to fight and win the weight gain battle. What works for one may not work for another, so trying out different solutions can result in finding the best methods for you.

  • Change your diet to incorporate more whole foods, fiber and healthy fats.
  • Try intermittent fasting to boost your metabolism.
  • Reduce alcohol and processed sugar intake.
  • Schedule 20-30 minutes of cardio and/or aerobic exercise, up to five days a week.
  • Get 7 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.

There are many different methods you can try to discover what works best for you.

Bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can also be an important component to maintaining a healthy weight. We have a team of BHRT specialists ready to answer your questions and get you back to feeling like yourself. 

Take Charge of Your Body

Every woman will experience some physical changes when estrogen levels decrease during menopause. The number and intensity of these changes will differ with each individual. Weight gain is a major effect of a drop in estrogen.

With some effort and determination, you can gain some control over these changes and how they affect your body and mind. Try a new healthy diet. Move your body around regularly. Push yourself every day to counteract the effects of decreased estrogen levels. When you do, you will reap the rewards of your efforts!


To learn more about getting your body back on track, download our free e-book. Then give us a call and set up a free consultation with our friendly and knowledgeable team. There’s no better time than now to take back control of your body!

When you’re ready to make a change, download our free e-book. Then give us a call to set up a free consultation. Let us guide you toward a better tomorrow!

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