Progesterone is a hormone that helps maintain a healthy pregnancy and regulates the menstrual cycle. If you have low progesterone levels and are taking progesterone in the form of contraception or hormonal therapy, “Can progesterone cause weight gain?” This blog will help you understand the relationship between progesterone and weight gain! Additionally, we will explain tips for managing your weight during progesterone treatment. Please read it!
Can progesterone cause weight gain? This is the fact
No, progesterone does not directly lead to weight gain. However, weight gain during hormone therapy, including progesterone, can occur indirectly due to several changes in physical function. They include:
Some people taking progesterone supplements or related treatments experience imbalances in their hormone levels. This can lead to weight gain. the study Progesterone, employed as part of intravitro fertilization therapy, reports that it contributes to weight gain.
Progesterone can slow the metabolism rate in which somatic cells burn calories. This occurs due to interaction with progesterone with other hormones, such as thyroid hormones, which are involved in controlling metabolic rates. If your metabolism is slow, you will burn less calories and lead to weight gain.
Changes in appetite caused by progesterone can be caused by the effects of progesterone on hunger signals in the brain, leading to high calorie intake. Increased appetite can contribute to food cravings that are high in fat and carbohydrate, or the problem of overeating that can contribute to weight gain.
Progesterone treatment can cause fluid retention in the body, particularly by raising sodium retention. This can contribute to temporary weight gain, especially when using progesterone-based medications.
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Blood glucose level fluctuations
Progesterone can affect glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity. When insulin sensitivity decreases, the body tends to store more fat, especially in the abdomen, leading to weight gain.
Notes: Not everyone gains weight with progesterone treatments, which can vary depending on metabolism, age, and lifestyle factors.
Is weight gain from progesterone treatment permanent?
No, weight gain is not permanent with progesterone treatment. Essentially, it is due to non-permanent hormonal fluctuations and fluid retention. Once hormone levels are stabilized after halting progesterone-based medications, your weight may return to normal.
However, if metabolism and high appetite change remain for a long time, individuals may experience chronic weight gain. In such cases, please refer to your doctor for effective weight management options.
Does progesterone lead to weight gain during pregnancy?
Yes, progesterone can cause weight gain during pregnancy. It is essentially normal to gain weight during pregnancy. It is recommended that you successfully earn 25-35 pounds during pregnancy. However, progesterone is not the only factor.
In addition to progesterone treatment, these factors can also lead to weight gain during pregnancy.
Tips for managing weight gain during progesterone treatment
Consider these tips for managing your weight during progesterone treatment.
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Focus on diet: Keep a healthy weight by adding nutritiously dense foods such as lean protein, whole grains, healthy fats, fruits and vegetables.
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Exercise regularly: Practice strength training and cardiovascular exercise to effectively boost metabolism.
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Manage liquid retention: Drink large amounts of water and reduce sodium intake to reduce bloating and liquid retention.
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Choose diuretic foods. Natural diuretic foods such as cucumber, celery and watermelon can be incorporated into your diet to reduce bloating.
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Get plenty of sleep: Aim to get 7-9 hours of proper sleep to support metabolism and hormone balance.
Notes: If you are continuously gaining weight, consult your doctor to adjust your progesterone treatment and suggest other options.
Can progesterone lead to weight loss?
Progesterone does not directly contribute to weight loss, but it can lead to indirect weight loss, reducing inflammation and maintaining hormone levels. how?
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Progesterone maintains the effect of a hormone called “estrogen,” which is responsible for fat accumulation.
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High progesterone levels help prevent fat accumulation and support effective burning of fat.
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Additionally, progesterone can alleviate inflammation.
All these factors can contribute to weight management. However, other factors such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and hydration can also help you manage your weight.
Final thoughts
So, can progesterone cause weight gain? As we learned in this article, progesterone can indirectly affect metabolism, appetite, and blood glucose levels, and contribute to weight gain, not to directly cause weight gain. This weight gain is temporary, but each person’s response may differ. Therefore, if you gain weight, consider balanced dietary consumption, exercise regularly, manage fluid retention, and get plenty of sleep. If weight gain is an issue, consult a doctor to find out the best course of action.
Read again: Do you gain weight during your period?
FAQ
Can progesterone cause belly fat?
Yes, along with progesterone, hormone imbalances such as insulin, estrogen and cortisol can contribute to belly fat.
What happens when a woman starts taking progesterone?
They can experience effects such as mood swings, menstrual bleeding, fatigue, bloating, and breast tenderness, especially in the first few weeks of progesterone use.
Can progesterone fatigue you?
Yes, you may feel tired as your progesterone levels increase and decrease throughout your life.
Do you lose weight after stopping progesterone use?
Yes, you can lose weight after discontinuing progesterone use, but not so much.
Can progesterone therapy cause postmenopausal weight gain?
Yes, a decrease in postmenopausal progesterone levels can contribute to muscle mass loss and lead to weight gain.
