Highly processed foods trigger hormonal responses that promote weight gain from "summary" of Always Hungry? by DAVID. S. LUDWIG
Highly processed foods are the main culprit when it comes to weight gain. These foods have been stripped of their natural fiber, vitamins, and minerals, leaving behind nothing but refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats. When we consume these processed foods, our bodies go into overdrive trying to process them. This leads to a spike in blood sugar levels, which in turn triggers the release of insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by signaling our fat cells to store excess glucose as fat. The more processed foods we eat, the more insulin our bodies have to produce, leading to a vicious cycle of weight gain. In addition to insulin, processed foods also trigger the release of other hormones such as ghrelin and leptin. Ghrelin is known as the "hunger hormone" because it stimulates appetite and promotes fat storage. Leptin, on the other hand, is the "satiety hormone" that signals to the brain when we are full. However, when we consume highly processed foods, the balance between ghrelin and leptin is disrupted, leading to overeating and weight gain. Moreover, processed foods are often high in added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and unhealthy fats, all of which can further disrupt our hormonal balance. These ingredients not only lead to weight gain but also increase our risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. In contrast, whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins have a much different effect on our hormones. These foods are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which help slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. This, in turn, leads to a more gradual release of insulin and helps keep our hormones in balance.- We can better regulate our hormones and prevent weight gain. It's not about counting calories or restricting ourselves; it's about nourishing our bodies with the right foods to support our overall health and well-being.
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