Endocrine obesity is a condition of excessive weight gain due to hormonal disorders or imbalances in the body. Endocrine disorders, Cushing’s syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)… can slow down metabolism, change the way the body stores fat, and cause uncontrolled weight gain. So how to detect endocrine obesity early and how to prevent it effectively.
1. What is endocrine obesity?
Endocrine obesity is a type of obesity that occurs due to an imbalance or disorder in the endocrine system, the endocrine system performs the function of producing and regulating hormones in the body. These hormones play an important role in regulating metabolism, hunger, energy levels, and fat storage in the body. When the endocrine system does not function properly, it can lead to excessive fat accumulation and obesity.
Causes of endocrine obesity:
- Hypothyroidism: The thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, leading to a decrease in metabolism and weight gain, fat accumulation.
- Cushing’s syndrome: Too much of the hormone cortisol is produced by the body. High cortisol leads to weight gain, especially in the abdomen, face, and back.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): A common endocrine disorder in women, causing menstrual irregularities and weight gain, especially in the abdomen.
- Insulin resistance: When the body does not use insulin effectively, it can lead to high blood sugar levels, promoting fat accumulation, especially visceral fat.
- Growth Hormone Deficiency: Growth hormone plays an important role in regulating the distribution of fat in the body. A lack of this hormone can lead to increased fat accumulation.
Symptoms of endocrine obesity:
- Uncontrolled weight gain: Despite eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly, it is still difficult to lose weight.
- Abnormal fat distribution: Accumulation of fat in specific areas such as the abdomen, face, or upper back.
- Fatigue and exhaustion: Due to the effects of endocrine disorders on metabolism.
- Menstrual disorders or amenorrhea: Especially in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.
- Prone to skin-related problems: Such as stretch marks, thin skin, easy bruising (common in Cushing’s syndrome).
Treatment of endocrine obesity:
- Treatment of endocrine obesity often focuses on correcting the hormone imbalance.
Treatment of endocrine obesity can apply the following methods:
Hormonal treatment drugs: For example, synthetic thyroid hormones to treat hypothyroidism, or drugs to treat insulin resistance.
Lifestyle changes: Including a healthy diet and regular exercise, although this may not be effective enough without hormonal treatments.
Monitoring and treatment of other hormonal disorders: Depends on the specific cause of obesity.
Hormonal obesity requires medical intervention and should not be based on diet and exercise alone. Treatment should be done in consultation with an endocrinologist to effectively manage and correct hormonal disorders.
2. Who is susceptible to endocrine obesity?
Endocrine obesity often occurs in high-risk groups due to factors related to hormonal disorders, specific health conditions, or genetic factors. Below are the subjects susceptible to endocrine obesity and specific ages or situations:
Women of reproductive age
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age (from 15 to 44 years old). Women with PCOS often have high levels of androgen hormones, causing menstrual cycle disorders, difficulty losing weight, and increased risk of obesity, especially obesity in the abdominal area.
Menopause: Women entering menopause often experience hormonal changes, especially a decrease in estrogen, which can lead to weight gain and changes in body fat distribution, increasing the risk of endocrine obesity.
Adults and Seniors
Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in adults, especially middle-aged and older women. When the thyroid is underactive, metabolism slows down, leading to weight gain and obesity.
Cushing’s syndrome: This condition, caused by overproduction of cortisol, can occur in adults of all ages, but is most often diagnosed in people between the ages of 20 and 50. High cortisol causes weight gain, especially fat accumulation in the face, neck, back, and abdomen.
Genetics
Genetics: Some people are at higher risk for endocrine obesity due to genetics. For example, if someone in the family has hypothyroidism, PCOS, or Cushing’s syndrome, other family members are at higher risk for these conditions as well.
Children and adolescents
Growth Hormone Deficiency: Children and adolescents with growth hormone deficiency may have difficulty growing taller and may be prone to fat accumulation, leading to obesity. This condition can continue to affect them throughout their lives if not treated promptly.
Pubertal: Some children, especially girls, may develop endocrine problems such as PCOS soon after puberty, leading to weight gain and obesity.
People with underlying medical conditions or medications
Corticosteroid use: People who take corticosteroids for a long time, for example to treat rheumatoid arthritis or asthma, are at risk of developing Cushing’s syndrome, which can lead to endocrine obesity.
Other medical conditions: Patients with autoimmune diseases such as lupus, type 1 diabetes, or those with pituitary disease, are also at increased risk of hormone disorders that lead to obesity.
Endocrine obesity can affect people of all ages, but is more common in women, especially during their reproductive years or menopause, and in middle-aged adults. People with a family history of endocrine disorders, people taking long-term corticosteroids, or people with certain underlying medical conditions are also at increased risk. Early recognition and prompt treatment are important to manage and prevent complications of endocrine obesity.
3. How to reduce obesity due to hormonal disorders?
Reducing obesity due to hormonal disorders often requires a multi-pronged approach, focusing on correcting hormonal imbalances, lifestyle changes, and specialized medical support.
Effective methods for managing and reducing obesity due to hormonal disorders:
3.1. Treating the hormonal cause
- Hypothyroidism: Use thyroid hormone replacement medications, such as levothyroxine, as prescribed by your doctor, to regulate thyroid hormone levels and improve metabolic rate.
- Cushing’s syndrome: Treatment may include changing corticosteroid medications if that is the cause, or surgery, radiation therapy, or medications to control cortisol production.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Treatment may include hormone-modifying medications such as birth control pills to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen levels, as well as insulin-resistant medications such as metformin to improve insulin resistance.
- Growth hormone deficiency: Treatment with synthetic growth hormone may help improve fat distribution and muscle growth.
3.2. Dietary changes
- Eat a balanced diet: Limit high-calorie foods and focus on foods rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins are good choices.
- Manage carbohydrates and sugars: Reducing refined carbohydrates and sugars can help improve insulin levels and aid weight loss.
- Small meals: Eating several small meals throughout the day can help control hunger and maintain stable energy levels.
3.3. Increase Physical Activity
- Exercise Regularly: Spend at least 150 minutes a week doing moderate-intensity aerobic activities such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling.
- Strength Training: Incorporate strength training at least twice a week to maintain muscle mass and boost metabolism.
- Increase Daily Activity: Be active in your daily life such as walking more, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and participating in physical recreational activities.
3.4. Monitor and Adjust
- Monitor your weight and body mass index: Weigh yourself regularly to track your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
- Monitor other health indicators: Measure your waistline and check other health indicators such as blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.
3.5. Adjust your long-term lifestyle
- Build healthy habits: Create sustainable eating and exercise habits to maintain your ideal weight and overall health.
- Focus on gradual change: Small but consistent lifestyle changes can yield long-term results and are easier to maintain.
- Some notes on improving endocrine obesity
- Consult a specialist: See an endocrinologist or dietitian for specific advice and treatment based on the endocrine cause of obesity.
- Participate in a weight loss program: Specialized weight loss programs can provide specific support and guidance for managing endocrine obesity.
Endocrine obesity requires intensive and multifaceted management. Combining medical treatment with a healthy lifestyle will help control and reduce obesity effectively. Everyone needs to take an active role in their health early on to live a healthy, long life.
References: Betterhealth.vic.gov.au, News-medical.net, Healthline.com
