What is the Origin of Hormonal Weight Gain?

The term combines "hormonal," relating to the endocrine system, with "weight gain," a clinical observation. Its recognition as a distinct category emphasizes the powerful, non-caloric regulatory role of hormones in energy partitioning and body composition.

What is the Mechanism of Hormonal Weight Gain?

Chronic elevation of cortisol promotes the differentiation of pre-adipocytes into mature fat cells and stimulates lipogenesis, particularly favoring fat storage in the abdominal area. Concurrently, insulin resistance leads to compensatory hyperinsulinemia, which is a potent anti-lipolytic and pro-storage signal. The age-related decline in hormones like growth hormone and testosterone further contributes by reducing basal metabolic rate and shifting the body composition toward increased fat mass.

Hormonal Weight Gain ∞ Area

Hormonal Weight Gain

Meaning

Hormonal Weight Gain describes the accumulation of body mass, primarily as adipose tissue, that is causally linked to a measurable dysregulation or imbalance within the endocrine system. This type of weight gain often presents with a characteristic pattern, such as increased central or visceral adiposity, and frequently proves resistant to standard caloric restriction and exercise regimens alone. Key hormonal drivers include chronic hypercortisolemia, insulin resistance, and a decline in anabolic hormones.