It’s a fact of life that men and women gain weight as they reach middle age. Hormonal changes and a slowing metabolism are the primary culprits behind this increase, along with other unwanted menopause or andropause symptoms. Hormone replacement therapy treats these symptoms but often leads to questions about the relationship between HRT and weight.
This post will answer the most common questions about your weight and how HRT affects it, including options for managing mid-life weight gain.
1. Can HRT Cause Weight Gain?
Despite many women and men experiencing weight gain while using hormone replacement therapy to manage menopause or low testosterone symptoms, there is little evidence to support the theory that HRT is responsible for weight gain. Weight gain is a side effect some patients experience, but it often results because of increased muscle mass and bone density. These positive side effects are usually seen more often in men than women. Learn more about HRT’s relationship to weight in our previous blog post.
2. Does HRT Increase Muscle Mass?
Many of the men who ask us about HRT are experiencing a loss of muscle tone in addition to gaining weight. Testosterone replacement therapy, combined with regular exercise and a healthy diet, helps build muscle mass. And because testosterone helps support muscle mass, bone density, fat burning, and overall energy, boosting the testosterone level can also help reduce weight.
Menopausal women encounter similar issues—specifically struggling with weight gain as their estrogen levels fall during menopause. Restoring hormonal balance can help boost muscle mass and reduce weight, but these aren’t typically the primary reasons for women to seek HRT.
3. Will I Lose Weight if I Stop HRT?
Not necessarily. The relationship between HRT and weight gain is complex and varies among individuals. While some women and men may experience weight changes during HRT, studies have shown that HRT does not cause weight gain beyond what is typically expected. Likewise, stopping HRT doesn’t necessarily mean you will lose weight.
4. What Are the Best Options for Managing Weight Gain?
Whether you choose to get hormone replacement therapy or not, adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a nutritious diet and regular exercise is essential in managing your weight. If that isn’t enough to help you reach a healthy weight, GLP-1 weight loss medication is another option. These medications, such as Zepbound® (tirzepatide) and Wegovy® (semaglutide), are prescription injections that suppress your appetite and slow gastric emptying—helping you feel full for longer.
Get More Information
If you’re considering hormone replacement therapy and want to learn more about how it may affect your weight, call us at (225) 960-1580 or request a consultation using the online form.
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