Hi Reader,

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​No seriously, I think it’s my thyroid

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Today we’re continuing our talk about…Causes of Weight Gain that have nothing to do with diet.

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In the last issue we addressed the 3rd of 5 potential reasons. So let’s jump into reason #4

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1. Lack of Sleep
2. Chronic Stress
3. Sedentary Lifestyle
4. Hormonal Imbalances
5. Medication Side Effects

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And of course, we'll also explore how adopting a plant-forward lifestyle can be incredibly beneficial in managing these factors. Let's dive in.

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​Episode 4: Hormonal Imbalances

So, here's the tea! Hormones are like the master conductors of your body's symphony. They regulate everything from your metabolism and appetite to your mood and energy levels. But when those hormones get out of whack, it can throw everything off balance—including your weight.

One of the big culprits behind hormonal imbalances is insulin. This little guy is responsible for regulating your blood sugar levels, but when you're chowing down on too many sugary, processed foods, it can start to go haywire. And when insulin goes rogue, it can lead to weight gain, especially around the belly.

Remember cortisol? We’ve mentioned this in the last few issues. It's your body's main stress hormone, and when you're constantly feeling frazzled, cortisol levels can go through the roof. And you guessed it—elevated cortisol levels can wreak havoc on your waistline, leading to increased fat storage, especially around the midsection.

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Now, here's where your plant-forward lifestyle swoops in to save the day. Plant-based foods are like the ultimate hormone-balancing superheroes! They're packed with all the good stuff your body needs to keep those hormones in check.

First off, plants are loaded with fiber, which helps regulate insulin levels and keep your blood sugar stable. Say goodbye to those rollercoaster blood sugar spikes and crashes that leave you reaching for the cookie jar!

And let's not forget about phytonutrients—the magical compounds found in plants that have all sorts of amazing health benefits. Some phytonutrients are like natural hormone balancers, helping to keep your endocrine system humming along smoothly.

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But perhaps the best part of all? Plant-based eating is all about ditching the processed junk and loading up on whole, nutrient-dense foods that nourish your body from the inside out. When you're filling up on fruits, veggies, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, you're giving your body the fuel it needs to thrive—and keeping those hormones happy in the process.

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So, whether you're looking to balance your blood sugar, tame your stress levels, or just feel better overall, going plant-forward is definitely the way to go. Your hormones—and your waistline—will thank you for it!

And if you suspect that a hormonal imbalance might be contributing to your weight gain, it's always a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider. They can help you figure out what's going on and come up with a plan to get your hormones back on track.

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TL;DR

Hormonal Imbalances

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• Thyroid Dysfunction:
  • Thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, can slow down metabolism and lead to weight gain, even with a healthy diet and exercise routine.
• Hormone Imbalances:
  • Imbalances in hormones such as estrogen levels, often caused by environmental factors or hormonal medications, can contribute to weight gain, particularly around the hips and thighs.
• How a Plant-Forward Lifestyle Can Help:
  • A plant-forward lifestyle can support hormonal balance by reducing exposure to hormone-disrupting chemicals found in animal products and processed foods. Additionally, incorporating cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale can promote estrogen metabolism and detoxification.

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If you found value in email, please feel free to share it with someone you know. I would really appreciate it!

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Thanks again,

Hugs and chocolate kisses! Kadae

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