3. High estrogen
Problem area: Fat stored around butt, thighs and hips
When your estrogen levels are normal, it helps you stay lean and manage the production of insulin in your body. However, when estrogen levels are off, it can cause you to gain weight rapidly. When you eat, the sugar in your body increases. It goes to three parts of your body: your muscles to use as fuel, some to fat storage and some to your liver. When things are off, more goes into your fat storage.
Pesticides, herbicides, genetically modified foods and different synthetic hormones in meat are only a few things which can disrupt your estrogen levels. These toxins mimic estrogen in the body, and some of these chemicals have lead to estrogen-driven diseases like breast and ovarian cancers as well as endometriosis.
Signs of high estrogen:
- Bloating, swelling and tenderness in the breasts
- Low sex drive
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Headaches,
- Mood swings
- Weight gain
Problem Solved!
Meat can be the culprit and create high levels of estrogen. Meat contains fats with estrogen. Some meats are overloaded with steroids, antibiotics and toxins from the feed and way they are raised. When you eat meat, you release these substances into your body. They act like estrogen and can increase your estrogen levels.
Increase your fiber intake. Fiber regulates your system and removes excess estrogen through waste. Also, eat foods rich in the compound flavone, like apples, melons and celery. Dr. Oz explained, “Flavones are compounds that, among other properties, can inhibit estrogen activity.” You can cut the production of new fat cells by 57 percent eating these foods daily!
4. High Insulin
Problem Area: The Muffin Top
Obesity levels are steadily increasing in the United States, especially in the African-American community. Half of Americans have some level of diabesity, which is diabetes and obesity. Your cells can become numb to insulin production. Blood sugar levels climb, and you store fat because your glucose is unable to regulate itself.
Signs of high insulin may include:
- Abdominal obesity
- Cravings for sugar or foods that are rich in carbohydrates
- Acne and large pores on the face
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- High blood pressure (swollen ankles, puffiness, etc.)
Problem Solved!
If you are insulin resistant, get your carbohydrate intake from vegetables with smaller amounts of fruits, nuts and seeds. Protein helps, too. Eat grass-fed lean meats. Instead of using sugar and artificial sweeteners, try cinnamon. This spice can cut insulin by 29 percent! Also, make sure you get enough sleep, which will help to metabolize your carbohydrates.
Slow Metabolism? Check Your Hormones was originally published on blackdoctor.org
