Thinking about starting HRT this year

[yourstrulydanae]

Hey sisters and brothers

I've heard about HRT for quite some time and lately have been leaning towards going for it. I think one thing that is holding me back is my weight. I am without a doubt overweight (obese as some people say) and in no way am I super fussed about being overweight, however I do feel like it would be a barrier towards me actually being eligible for HRT? I don't know in depth of the process of going on HRT or haven't enquired about it - also I live in New Zealand so i'm not sure if the processes/requirements/criteria would be different to how it is done in New Zealand. All feedback is appreciated. Alofa atu.

Danae <3

[Laura_7]

Well its not really healthy to be overweight ...

imo its not really a hindrance for hrt but there are a few SRS surgeons who have BMI restrictions ...

You might think about a change in diet towards more vegetarian food.
Many vegetables consist mostly of water.
So for example having an apple or a piece of pineapple as snack does not add much to weight.
Just ba a bit careful with coconut or coconut juice  . Because of fat.

Since you like food its possible to make changes and still keeping tasty food.
Its simply different.

whole grain bread with various toppings and salads could be an idea ...
selfmade soups ...
all in a healthy variety ...

avocado oil is said to contain ingredients that do not go predominantly to the belly ...
avoiding carbonated drinks and drinks with a high content of sugar should also be a good idea, preferring bottled water and tea instead ...
warm tea can also help feeling full ... maybe with natural sweetening like honey, or brown sugar ...


*hugs*

[SofiN]

I think at least for HRT you should be ok - just bear in mind you may need a stronger dosage vs someone who is healthy. When I got initially referred for treatment they checked my health, including weight and BMI but it was to see if I had any underlying issues.

The only thing they really stressed was that smoking can negatively impact HRT and that alcohol amounts should be kept on the low. (I almost never drink and am not a smoker so its fine for me)

If you are worried, talk to your endo about it when you are going through the pathway to HRT. I doubt they will turn you away though.

[KayXo]

Eating less carbs (especially refined), more fat (including saturated fat) and enough protein has shown to reduce body weight and improve health. Including animal fats and protein is fine and will not have a negative impact on weight loss, might even help.

HRT, if adequate, helps women keep weight off and present a more favorable, healthier distribution of fat that is less atherogenic.

[KyleeKrow]

Yah, I dropped a ton of weight first before I started. Being on HRT will probably make it more difficult to lose it. I mainly just wanted to be as healthy as I could before in couldn't stand it anymore and just started. I've still got a little bit to go, but its been coming off with diet and exercise. Taking some nutrition/wellness classes helped me a lot, and basically taking small steps to change my lifestyle instead of just going on a diet and crashing.