Oral contraceptives have come a long way since they first appeared on the market. The newer formulations are easier on the female body, have less estrogen-like substances and are very effective.
Nonetheless, the question still remains as to whether or not oral contraceptives cause weight gain in the female body.
Well, after having looked into this extensively, the research demonstrates that contraceptives can in fact cause increases in weight. Here is how they can do it:
1. Reduced insulin ability. This becomes more of a concern if you have a prior condition with insulin resistance. And when insulin can’t function properly, your active tissues can’t absorb calories very well. This translates into more calories going towards fat cells.
2. Less fight or flight hormones. Said hormones are critical for mobilizing and burning fat from your fat stores. Without these hormones, losing weight can become extremely difficult. They are also responsible for providing you with energy.
3. Amino acid disruption. The main issue with not getting enough amino acids is that it compromises recovery. And if you are not recovering properly, you will start to hit plateaus. Said plateaus are horrible for your progress and motivation.
4. Water retention. Although temporary, this is still an undesirable side effect. Since contraceptives increase levels of estrogen-like substances, your body may hold onto more water than usual. One way to counteract this is with diuretics, but this can take a toll.
Getting off of contraceptives is something to think about extensively, it’s not something you want to do on a whim. Also, every woman is going to have a slightly different reaction to different formulations.
I suggest talking to your doctor is you feel that contraceptives are preventing your from reaching your physique goals. After all, you can always get back on them once you hit your target. Remember that maintenance is much easier than change.
Also, remember to act on this information sooner rather than later, or you might forget the valuable insights.
Writer Katherine Crawford, a Harvard fitness physiologist and former flabby arms sufferer, teaches women how to lose loose arm fat. Learn how to get sexy arms by visiting her blog about how to tone up arms now!
