10 tests to take if you can't lose weight
Almost each of us at least once in our life thinks that the parameters of her figure need some correction. The solution is usually one of the most publicized diets. Few consult with doctors: it is believed that in order to lose a few extra pounds, outside help is not needed.
Unfortunately, not everyone achieves a positive result. Formulating an optimal diet is a rather complicated matter that requires a professional approach. In addition, getting rid of excess weight only with the help of food restrictions is unlikely to succeed: proper nutrition should be combined with reasonable physical activity.
But it happens that a woman uses the recommendations of specialists, strictly follows their advice, but the efforts still do not give an effect. This situation may be due to endocrine disorders. Today we will talk about the research that should be done for those who have been trying to lose weight for a long time and unsuccessfully.
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Thyroxine and triiodothyronine
Thyroid hormones thyroxine (T3) and triiodothyronine (T4) are directly involved in metabolic processes, regulate their intensity and speed. Deviations in the concentration of thyroxine and triiodothyronine from the norm in some cases lead to uncontrolled weight gain.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone
Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced by the pituitary gland. It regulates the activity of the thyroid gland and the process of producing the hormones T3 and T4 depends on it. A low level of TSH in the blood leads to hypothyroidism, one of the symptoms of which is obesity.
Blood glucose
The concentration of glucose in the blood of a healthy person is variable. Its values can fluctuate depending on gender and age, time of day, physical activity, food intake, and even stress and trauma. A glucose test must be taken on an empty stomach. If the result exceeds 6 mmol per 1 liter, this indicates problems with carbohydrate metabolism and a high risk of developing diabetes (or already existing diabetes mellitus), which is often accompanied by excess weight gain.
Glycated hemoglobin
Determination of the level of glycated hemoglobin gives an idea of the absorption of sugars by the body over a long period (usually 3 months). The concentration of this protein in the blood, not exceeding 5.9%, is considered normal. The content of glycated hemoglobin above 8% is usually observed in patients with diabetes mellitus.
With high levels of glycated hemoglobin, dieting attempts to lose weight not only fail - they can be harmful to health.
Insulin
It is a pancreatic hormone that regulates carbohydrate metabolism. An increased concentration of insulin in the blood leads to excessive appetite, and also activates the formation of fat depots. Naturally, this creates a high risk of developing obesity.
Glucose tolerance test
The result of this study shows how quickly the body metabolizes glucose. The procedure is performed on an empty stomach and includes several stages. First, the patient's blood glucose level is measured and offered to drink a glass of sweet water. The test is then repeated after 30, 60 and 90 minutes and a graph is plotted against which the gradual decrease in glucose concentration can be evaluated. The deviation of the obtained indicators from the standard indicates the presence of latent diabetes or a pre-diabetic state.
Estradiol
Excess weight may be due to high levels of hormones responsible for the development of subcutaneous adipose tissue. One of these substances is estradiol. It regulates the formation of female secondary sexual characteristics, participates in the formation of the menstrual cycle. Excess estradiol in the blood causes the accelerated deposition of fat in the abdomen and thighs, which is characteristic of the female body (female obesity).
Cortisol
Cortisol is an adrenal hormone that takes an active part in regulating energy processes. It is responsible for the body's response to stress, which is expressed, among other things, in the release of energy stored in fatty tissue and its transfer to organs and tissues.
The low content of cortisol in the blood leads to inhibition of processes of this kind and the formation of excess fat reserves.
Testosterone
This is one of the main male hormones, but it is also present in a woman's body. The balance of testosterone and estradiol determines the normal functioning of the female reproductive system. Both the excess and the lack of the male hormone usually cause metabolic failures, which entails gaining excess weight.
Follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones
Luteinizing (LH) and follicle-stimulating (FSH) hormones are produced in the pituitary gland and regulate ovarian function. If a woman is gaining excess weight in parallel with irregularities in the menstrual cycle, this may indicate an imbalance of FSH and LH in the blood.
The endocrine system of the human body is sensitive to any changes in diet and lifestyle. When the endocrine glands are not working properly, fighting excess weight through diet and exercise can be not only useless, but also dangerous. If attempts to lose weight do not bring results, it is worth contacting an endocrinologist and getting tested for hormones. If it is found that the cause of excess weight is hormonal imbalance, eliminating it will allow you to lose weight.
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Maria Kulkes Medical journalist About the author
Education: First Moscow State Medical University named after I. M. Sechenov, specialty "General Medicine".
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