Weight regulation involves complex hormonal signaling between the brain, digestive system, and fat tissue. Key hormones like leptin, ghrelin, and insulin work together to control hunger, satiety, and energy storage. When this system becomes dysregulated, the brain receives incorrect signals about energy needs.
Your metabolic rate determines how efficiently your body burns calories. Factors such as thyroid function, muscle mass, and mitochondrial efficiency all influence metabolic rate. Age-related muscle loss further compounds this by reducing calorie-burning capacity.
Insulin resistance develops when cells become less responsive to insulin's signals, leading to elevated blood glucose and increased fat storage, particularly around the midsection.
