Many people have heard the classic equation for weight gain: calories in versus calories out. However, this equation often leaves out a key factor: food sensitivities. Alarmingly 15-20% of the population report food intolerances, causing chronic, low-grade chronic inflammation and histaminergic response, as well as gut dysbiosis (Imbalance of gut microbiome). In addition, they can cause food cravings, and affect hormones and metabolic pathways, all leading to weight gain. In this blog post, we'll explore how different foods can trigger specific hormones, the role of inflammation in weight gain, and the various ties between food sensitivities and obesity.
Food Sensitivities Trigger Inflammation:
When a person consumes food that they are sensitive to, it triggers an immune response in the body. This immune response, typically mediated by IgG antibodies, can cause inflammation, leading to water retention and bloating.
Additionally, food sensitivities can cause cravings for certain types of food, such as sugary or high-fat foods. These cravings can lead to overeating and weight gain. Some of the most common food sensitivities include dairy products, gluten, soy, and eggs. Other common triggers include nuts, shellfish, and certain fruits and vegetables.
Food Sensitivities Trigger Hormone Dysregulation
Hormones play a major role in our bodies, as they regulate everything from metabolism to hunger. Certain foods and food sensitivities are known to trigger specific hormones that can cause us to store fat more easily, leading to weight gain. Here is a brief explanation of how some of the hormonal dysregulations will cause weight gain:
1. Increased cortisol: this hormone is a stress response hormone, often secreted with gut inflammation caused by food sensitivities. Cortisol increases abdominal fat and causes insulin resistance, another contributor to weight gain.
2. Insulin: High-sugar foods like candy and soda, trigger the hormone insulin, the primary hormone responsible for blood glucose (sugar) control, which helps store glucose as fat rather than using it for energy, causing weight gain.
3. Over time this repeated insulin release causes Insulin resistance, meaning that the body has become less responsive to insulin. This process unleashes many additional inflammatory cascades, resulting in water retention, as well stored fat in the abdominal area.
4. High insulin levels, increased stored fat, and chronic inflammation due to food sensitivities, increase leptin levels in the blood. Leptin is a hormone linked with food sensitivities; when someone has a sensitivity to gluten
or dairy products they tend to have higher levels of leptin.
5. Leptin is a hormone produced by adipose (fat) tissue in the body, and it plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and metabolism. Elevated levels of leptin, causes a condition known as leptin resistance. In these cases, the brain becomes less responsive to the signals from leptin, leading to an increase in appetite and a decrease in energy expenditure. This can contribute to weight gain and difficulty losing weight.
6. Gluten intolerance is a known cause of increased thyroid hormone antibodies (autoimmune thyroid). Autoimmune Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis (AIHT) is the most common form of hypothyroidism, and hypothyroidism is a well-known cause of weight gain.
Food Sensitivities Cause Nutrient Deficiencies
Finally, the inflammation caused by food sensitivities causes poor digestion resulting in micronutrient deficiencies, further affecting metabolic pathways. There are other ties between food sensitivities and obesity such as poor absorption of vitamins & minerals from processed junk foods which further leads down the path towards gaining excessive amounts of unnecessary weight over time if one does not take care with what they eat regularly each day!
Food Sensitivities Cause Cravings
If you notice any changes in your cravings or hunger levels after eating particular types of food then this could be a sign that You are sensitive to certain types of food: those who are sensitive may crave the same type of food over time due its ability release chemicals that make us feel good. These cravings are caused by complex neurochemical pathways beyond the scope of this blog, but they are a phenomenon we are all familiar with! A good example of this is craving more sugar when eating sweets or carbohydrate-rich foods.
It's important to note that food cravings can be caused by a variety of factors, and food sensitivities are just one possible contributor. If you're experiencing food cravings or suspect you may have food sensitivity, it's a good idea to seek help for guidance.
Calories in MINUS Calories Out?
The widely accepted notion that calories in minus calories burned should determine a person's weight is only part of the story. It is important to consider other factors such as body composition, age, physical activity, metabolic rate, previous efforts at dieting, and lifestyle. Even subtle changes like sleep habits or digestion can have a dramatic effect on weight loss or gain. Therefore, it is vital to take all of these elements into account when attempting to control weight and progress toward health goals.
Knowledge is Power When Comes To Weigh Regulation.
In conclusion, although most weight gain is attributed to poor eating habits and a lack of physical activity, food sensitivities can result in weight gain. Specifically, when individuals have sensitivities to certain foods, it can cause inflammation in the gut, reducing nutrient absorption and triggering hormonal imbalances and food cravings, all contributing to weight gain. Food sensitivities must be addressed in order to prevent or reduce the likelihood of excessive weight gain, alongside lifestyle modifications. By taking steps such as consuming anti-inflammatory foods and eliminating potential allergens from your diet, you can lower the number of food sensitivities that may interfere with weight loss and general health. Understanding how different foods affect our bodies—particularly how they trigger specific hormones—is key when trying to lose or maintain weight healthily. There are many things at play when trying not only to understand but also manage one's own personal health journey knowing about potential issues related to food sensitivities & obesity will surely aid anyone on their way!
Food Sensitivity Testing at VBoutique
Do you struggle with unexplained weight gain or cravings? It could be due to food sensitivities and allergies. With a vast array of foods available to consumers, it can be hard to decide which types are best for one's body. Surprisingly, not all calories are created equal - the food that you eat can have a dramatic impact on your health and weight. With millions of people struggling with sensitivities or allergies such as gluten, egg, dairy, and more, eating out or enjoying certain mainstream snacks can be nearly impossible.
VBoutique offers a comprehensive testing service to help identify any underlying sensitivities that may be causing your issues. With this test, you can get the answers you need to start developing an effective plan for managing your weight and improving your health. VBoutique's testing process is designed to provide accurate results quickly so that you can take immediate action toward achieving your goals. The team of experts at VBoutique will work closely with you throughout the entire process, ensuring that all questions are answered and concerns addressed in a timely manner.
Medications for Weight Loss
VBoutique also offers a variety of FDA-approved medication-assisted weight loss programs to help individuals achieve their health and wellness goals. These include medications such as Semiglutide and Tirzepatide, which have been proven effective in aiding weight management. With these personalized plans, patients can rest assured that they are receiving the best possible care from qualified professionals who understand their unique situation. Whether you're looking for assistance with diet modifications or need help managing your weight, VBoutique has the resources available to provide comprehensive support throughout your journey toward better health.
It All Starts with a Consultation.
We understand that everyone has different needs when it comes to weight loss and health goals. Our team of experts works closely with you throughout the entire process, ensuring all questions are answered and concerns addressed in a timely manner. It all starts with a consultation where we listen carefully to your story and assess your current situation in order to create an effective plan for managing your weight and improving your overall health. With our comprehensive testing service and medication-assisted weight loss programs, you can rest assured that you will receive the best possible care from qualified professionals who truly understand your unique journey towards better health. Schedule your consultation with VBoutique at (561)357-2020.
Meet Dr. Vanden Bosch!
Meet Dr. Vanden Bosch, the primary physician at VBoutique! She is double board-certified in Radiology and Regenerative and Anti-Aging Medicine and
licensed in 10 states. With her deep understanding of aging and artistry, she offers personalized medicine and craft individualized treatment plans for each patient. By leveraging the latest in anti-aging medicine, including IV therapy, intramuscular injections, weight management services and hormone testing, Dr. Vanden Bosch provides tailored solutions designed to help her patients reach their wellness goals. With Vboutique’s comprehensive approach to healthcare, you can be sure that you are getting the best possible care for achieving maximum wellness!