The endocrine system, a complex and extremely important system for the human body, is responsible for the functioning of the glands and the control of the emission of hormones in the body. As for the action of hormones, this is practically on all systems and devices of the body. The main organs of the endocrine system are the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroids, testes and ovaries.
Hormones linked to weight
There are some hormones that directly influence the body weight maintenance. According to endocrinologists Dr. Eliane Naomi and Prof. doctor Danilo Höfling, there are many hormones and substances involved in maintaining body weight.
“As an example, one can mention the participation of two hormones: leptin and insulin. Leptin and insulin are hormones secreted in amounts proportional to adipose mass and act peripherally, stimulating catabolism, and on the central nervous system, interacting with receptors in the hypothalamus, favoring satiety”, explain the endocrinologists.
According to doctors, obese patients may have high levels of these hormones because they are resistant to their action. Another example cited by professionals is that of serum ghrelin, whose levels can lead to increased food intake.
Diseases in the endocrine system
Some disorders of the endocrine system can result in weight gain. Therefore, it is always recommended to consult a doctor to find out what is influencing this. “Hypothalamic, adrenal, thyroid, gonadal and pancreatic diseases can cause weight gain. One of the main examples is that of patients who have hypothyroidism, a state in which the amount of hormones produced by the thyroid gland is less than that of the body. body needs”, explains Prof. doctor Danilo Höfling.
According to the endocrinologist, “since thyroid hormones stimulate basal metabolism and oxygen consumption, their lack can contribute to weight gain in patients with this disease.” However, according to him, this only occurs when patients are not being treated with thyroid hormone replacement.
Diseases that cause weight loss
Other endocrinological diseases can cause weight loss. These, according to Prof. doctor Danilo Höfling, generally cause loss of lean mass, that is, water and muscle, in addition to fat loss. “The main endocrinological diseases that cause weight loss are diabetes type I mellitus, which uses insufficient dose or discontinues insulin; hyperthyroidism, which is an increase in thyroid hormones and adrenal insufficiency, a lack of hormones in the adrenal gland”, explain the endocrinologists. In all cases, it is always important to seek medical advice for treatment and weight maintenance.
Source: Maxima
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