Hormonal
Loss of circulating estrogen (E2) due to menopause causes rapid metabolic changes, including reduced metabolic rate, increased central adiposity, and insulin resistance, primarily mediated by estrogen receptor alpha (ERα).
If you are postmenopausal, the drop in estrogen is a major factor in gaining belly fat and developing insulin resistance. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can significantly lower diabetes risk, it must be weighed against potential cancer risks. Discuss with your doctor if tissue-selective estrogen complexes (TSECs) or early intervention might be appropriate for your metabolic health.
Clinical trials and animal studies have revealed that loss of circulating estrogen induces rapid changes in whole body metabolism, fat distribution, and insulin action. The metabolic effects of estrogen are mediated primarily by its receptor, estrogen receptor-α.
Why this rating
Supported by multiple large clinical studies and animal models cited in the review.
Source
Estrogen: An Emerging Regulator of Insulin Action and Mitochondrial Function
Anisha A. Gupte et al. · Journal of Diabetes Research · 2015
DOI 10.1155/2015/916585
More from this paper
- Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) activation improves insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance, whereas ERβ activation may have prodiabetogenic effects or reduced efficacy in this context.Good
- Estrogen regulates mitochondrial function, including biogenesis and respiratory chain activity, and loss of estrogen leads to mitochondrial dysfunction which contributes to insulin resistance.Good
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