Community Conversation => Transsexual talk => Male to female transsexual talk (MTF) => Topic started by: KelsieJ on November 07, 2013, 10:58:30 PM Return to Full Version
Title: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 07, 2013, 10:58:30 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 07, 2013, 10:58:30 PM
I'm just wondering, how many have gained weight or lost weight on estrogen? I've gained 29lb - in the process of trying to lose that excess weight (I'm down almost 9 lb now in 2 weeks), but it seems that most people lose weight, or at least start to appear smaller. Before I started I was equivalent of size 12......now with 29 pounds more, I'm up to 16 :/
I'm doing the pill right now vs injecting. Does that make a difference? Have you gained or lost weight, and are you injecting or taking it orally?
Curious Kelsie
I'm doing the pill right now vs injecting. Does that make a difference? Have you gained or lost weight, and are you injecting or taking it orally?
Curious Kelsie
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Jessica Merriman on November 07, 2013, 11:17:28 PM
Post by: Jessica Merriman on November 07, 2013, 11:17:28 PM
Hi Kelsie! I am on the "E" patch and Spiro. I started to lose weight before HRT and still am, but I think the latest loss is because of the diuretic effects of the Spiro. I did start a whole new dietary discipline though and am eating healthier. I have noticed a slight re-distribution of fat though making certain areas appear to gain weight, but the scale says no as far as overall gains. Not much info, but that's all I have for now.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: big kim on November 08, 2013, 01:42:12 AM
Post by: big kim on November 08, 2013, 01:42:12 AM
I put on hardly any weight when I first self medicated(don't do this!).When I was given official HRT it was a much increased dose and I ballooned,though I had a sit down job then and a very physical job in a warehouse before.By contrast my flatmate stayed a stick insect while taking the same dose
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Cindy on November 08, 2013, 01:48:02 AM
Post by: Cindy on November 08, 2013, 01:48:02 AM
Well I've stayed much the same, but I did decide a new body and a new life meant new habits, so I work out - hard- and I eat a healthy diet.
I did notice that my taste in food did change, I really don't like red meat anymore, I use to love it. So my protein source tends to be chicken, seafood etc. I restrict carbs and eat lots of vegies, I don't have excess sugar, I especially look out for the fizzy drink trap. I drink lots of water.
Yep spiro cleans out the kidneys!
I did notice that my taste in food did change, I really don't like red meat anymore, I use to love it. So my protein source tends to be chicken, seafood etc. I restrict carbs and eat lots of vegies, I don't have excess sugar, I especially look out for the fizzy drink trap. I drink lots of water.
Yep spiro cleans out the kidneys!
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Sammy on November 08, 2013, 02:18:45 AM
Post by: Sammy on November 08, 2013, 02:18:45 AM
I was loosing weight intensively before I started the HRT and was at 74 kg on the day when I submitted my pre-HRT blood tests. On the day when I got my prescription (but I was doing DIY for 1,5 months already....) I was 69 kg - the same was 3 months later. I have not been able to jump on scales recently but I have gotten a bit chubby in some areas... In general, I also do look smaller and feel the same :P. But I am quite big for a girl anyway :).
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: kira21 ♡♡♡ on November 08, 2013, 05:05:18 AM
Post by: kira21 ♡♡♡ on November 08, 2013, 05:05:18 AM
I have lost about 30-40 lbs. I was maybe an 8-10 before, now I am a 4-6.
I am on patch and spiro, not that I am sure it makes any difference. My weight change is probably due in part to hormonal muscle loss and dietary fat loss. I go for periods of time without eating though both to drop weight and to control it, so I am probably not a good guide to go by. (Yes I know its not healthy, but neither is my head if I don't). I would like to lose another 15 pounds, then I will hopefully get my diet more regular.
Meh.
I am on patch and spiro, not that I am sure it makes any difference. My weight change is probably due in part to hormonal muscle loss and dietary fat loss. I go for periods of time without eating though both to drop weight and to control it, so I am probably not a good guide to go by. (Yes I know its not healthy, but neither is my head if I don't). I would like to lose another 15 pounds, then I will hopefully get my diet more regular.
Meh.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Carrie Liz on November 08, 2013, 06:09:36 AM
Post by: Carrie Liz on November 08, 2013, 06:09:36 AM
I've lost 50 lbs since starting hormones. But that has nothing to do with the hormones themselves, I guarantee you. It's because I've been working my a** off to diet the weight off. Hormones have actually made it a lot harder to lose weight. It takes a LOT more effort to lose anything now. (Granted, the self-esteem boost from the hormones definitely helps with the drive to follow through with the weight loss... every time I tried dieting as a guy, I stopped caring once I got down to about 240 lbs and eventually gained it all back. Where now, I went WAY further than I've ever gone before, and have actually been able to keep it all off thus far.)
I think that's what accounts for a lot of people's weight loss, is that they gain the self-esteem and the drive to actually care enough about their bodies in order to do it, where it's a lot harder to care about a body that you hate.
I think that's what accounts for a lot of people's weight loss, is that they gain the self-esteem and the drive to actually care enough about their bodies in order to do it, where it's a lot harder to care about a body that you hate.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Natalia on November 08, 2013, 06:18:07 AM
Post by: Natalia on November 08, 2013, 06:18:07 AM
In one month on HRT I have lost 20 libs! I am now with 163 libs, still too much!
But I am on a diet, trying really hard to lose weight. For my height 5.5 ft I still need to lose something around 10 libs.
I don't know if HRT has something to do with it, but I am not feeling hungry all the time and I am being able to have really small meals and already feeling full.
But I am on a diet, trying really hard to lose weight. For my height 5.5 ft I still need to lose something around 10 libs.
I don't know if HRT has something to do with it, but I am not feeling hungry all the time and I am being able to have really small meals and already feeling full.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Eva Marie on November 08, 2013, 07:26:51 AM
Post by: Eva Marie on November 08, 2013, 07:26:51 AM
I started losing weight like crazy when my HRT switched from low dose to a transitioning dose. It got to the point that I was afraid that people would think that i was sick (I went from 180lbs to 162lbs in about a month), my clothes didn't fit, and I looked gaunt. 165lbs seems to be a good weight for me, and when I slip under that weight now I eat stuff like pizza to gain it back. Normally I eat a lot healthier than that but you have to do what you have to do to maintain a healthy weight.
I do get lots of exercise so maybe the exercise combined with HRT triggered the weight loss. I had been stuck 180 lbs for years before ramping up my HRT last month.
I do get lots of exercise so maybe the exercise combined with HRT triggered the weight loss. I had been stuck 180 lbs for years before ramping up my HRT last month.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Sammy on November 08, 2013, 08:31:12 AM
Post by: Sammy on November 08, 2013, 08:31:12 AM
Quote from: Eva Marie on November 08, 2013, 07:26:51 AM
I started losing weight like crazy when my HRT switched from low dose to a transitioning dose. It got to the point that I was afraid that people would think that i was sick (I went from 180lbs to 162lbs in about a month), my clothes didn't fit, and I looked gaunt.
That's exactly my friends thought and my best male friend even got the idea that I might have cancer...
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Lady_Oracle on November 08, 2013, 05:25:47 PM
Post by: Lady_Oracle on November 08, 2013, 05:25:47 PM
You do lose a lot of muscle mass, hence the loss in weight. For me I've been gradually gaining weight since I started hrt. I was naturally skinny all my life. I think I've gained about 20lbs. Started at 120ish now I'm at around 140. I'm quite happy about the weight gain! MORE CURVES!!! Ive started working out to keep my body in check while hrt works its magic :)
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: warlockmaker on November 08, 2013, 07:11:55 PM
Post by: warlockmaker on November 08, 2013, 07:11:55 PM
I was a slim fit male of 143 lbs and 5ft 7ins plus. I'v always been a health fanatic - im still the same wight and i eat a lot less BUT I notice I can put on weight easily. Females do have a slower metabolism and I knew I had to eat less BUT food taste so good !!! I'm tryingto lose 3 lbs
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Just Shelly on November 08, 2013, 08:23:27 PM
Post by: Just Shelly on November 08, 2013, 08:23:27 PM
Quote from: ♡ Emily ♡ on November 08, 2013, 08:31:12 AM
That's exactly my friends thought and my best male friend even got the idea that I might have cancer...
This is what's sad for many males that loose weight!
Pre-transition about 9 years ago I lost about 20#, that may not seem like much but I was only 160# to begin with....many people would comment and some would ask if I was alright!! A couple years later I lost another 20# because of stress and depression from divorce....most thought I was dying!! :o I did at one time get down to 118#
Now 6 years later I have gained 7 pounds back (mostly belly) none in the butt or boobs!! The big difference is now other women will comment on how skinny I am and some men seem to look more....never am I looked at as being sickly or underweight!!
I do like my weight where it is now and I fear about putting on even 1 or 2 pounds.....but then at times I eat unhealthy to try and put on some weight in other places.... :-\
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: evecrook on November 08, 2013, 08:51:14 PM
Post by: evecrook on November 08, 2013, 08:51:14 PM
I just started HRT 3 days ago . I feel pretty blotted. I'm over weight so right now I can use to lose it. I could lose it because I'd like to buy some nice skirts to go out with. I eat pretty healthy so I'm not worried about losing too much.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 09, 2013, 06:11:42 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 09, 2013, 06:11:42 PM
Seems most lose weight and some gain. Wonder if it's anything to do with taking estrogens any other way than intramuscular....?
My doc wants me to move to injectable because she said people "seem to have better results that way" but couldn't give me "proof". I'm scared of doing the needle, but guess it would be better on my liver, etc, anyway.
Thanks everyone
Kelsie
My doc wants me to move to injectable because she said people "seem to have better results that way" but couldn't give me "proof". I'm scared of doing the needle, but guess it would be better on my liver, etc, anyway.
Thanks everyone
Kelsie
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Riley Skye on November 09, 2013, 08:33:07 PM
Post by: Riley Skye on November 09, 2013, 08:33:07 PM
I gained roughly 15lb going from 130-145 and assuming you get back under 140 next year during my Ironman training. The best part is that all the fat is in the good places!
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 10, 2013, 02:39:57 AM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 10, 2013, 02:39:57 AM
Interesting! I haven't started HRT yet, but I've ben consciously loosing weight. I don't own a scale, but my belt is not 3 notches tighter and my previously tight skinny jeans (32" waist) are baggy. :) I stopped eating sweets and snacks, became a vegetation, and just don't eat much during the day. I feel great! But I'm hungry all he time. The things we do to be pretty. lol I'm in my mid 50s, so I don't want to be old and fat.
I read that some people gain weight, and I was a little over weight, so I want to be prepared.
I read that some people gain weight, and I was a little over weight, so I want to be prepared.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Naturally Blonde on November 10, 2013, 06:30:25 AM
Post by: Naturally Blonde on November 10, 2013, 06:30:25 AM
Everyone keeps talking about Sprio? I live in the U.K and want to get on Spiro? how can this be achieved? I've been through the whole GIC system over here but still can't get my anti-androgens on prescription. Spiro is my preference but I need to know how to access it.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Ltl89 on November 10, 2013, 09:11:30 AM
Post by: Ltl89 on November 10, 2013, 09:11:30 AM
I've been losing weight, but that is probably more related to exercise and dieting. I wouldn't expect estrogen to make any drastic changes to your overall weight (besides muscle mass). If you feel the need to lose some pounds, make sure to work for it. It sucks but it takes effort to lose it. And for those of you who hope to gain weight because you're so skinny...... well, I hate you, jk. ;)
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: JennX on November 10, 2013, 01:46:27 PM
Post by: JennX on November 10, 2013, 01:46:27 PM
I've lost weight. But I also exercise regularly and watch what I eat. It seems to be 50/50.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Mary81 on November 10, 2013, 02:10:36 PM
Post by: Mary81 on November 10, 2013, 02:10:36 PM
My weight has changed violently (for me) in the past year. First, my psychiatrist put me on an antidepressant and I went from around 50kg to around 77kg in 4 months. When my doctor told me my cholesterol and triglycerides were too high, I stopped the antidepressant and started a pretty extreme diet and excises plan. I managed to drop 19kg between February and when I started HRT a month and a half ago. I have been eating normally since I started HRT and doing only light excises (running and Pilates). At first I figured I would put some weight on, but instead I have lost another 3kg. I suppose it is muscle mass, but I am not sure. I hope it is.
Mary
Mary
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 10, 2013, 02:15:16 PM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 10, 2013, 02:15:16 PM
Some antidepressants make you gain weight. That happened to my ex wife.
I have ask read that estrogen often increases appetite, so that's something to watch out for.
I have ask read that estrogen often increases appetite, so that's something to watch out for.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Mary81 on November 10, 2013, 02:48:55 PM
Post by: Mary81 on November 10, 2013, 02:48:55 PM
I was hungry all the time while I was on antidepressants, that is true. I also read that E can increase your appitite, but I haven't really noticed a change in that department. My tastes have changed a bit though. For example, I used to love spicy food and coffee and now I just have no desire to have either really.
Mary
Mary
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Amelia Pond on November 10, 2013, 02:55:42 PM
Post by: Amelia Pond on November 10, 2013, 02:55:42 PM
I've lost over 66 lbs since the beginning of the year. I've been on E, Spiro and Finasteride since late April. I changed my daily diet at the beginning of the year and have kept that up with very little exercise (got a little lazy :laugh:). Since antidepressants were brought up, I've also been on antidepressants since around 2003 (maybe 2004, I forget).
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 10, 2013, 03:31:46 PM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 10, 2013, 03:31:46 PM
Quote from: Carrie Liz on November 08, 2013, 06:09:36 AM
I've lost 50 lbs since starting hormones. But that has nothing to do with the hormones themselves, I guarantee you. It's because I've been working my a** off to diet the weight off. Hormones have actually made it a lot harder to lose weight. It takes a LOT more effort to lose anything now. (Granted, the self-esteem boost from the hormones definitely helps with the drive to follow through with the weight loss... every time I tried dieting as a guy, I stopped caring once I got down to about 240 lbs and eventually gained it all back. Where now, I went WAY further than I've ever gone before, and have actually been able to keep it all off thus far.)
I think that's what accounts for a lot of people's weight loss, is that they gain the self-esteem and the drive to actually care enough about their bodies in order to do it, where it's a lot harder to care about a body that you hate.
This is where I'm at pre-HRT. I've lost almost 45 lbs... and I get to see if it's easier or harder to lose more on AA's (loss of muscle mass?) starting in Dec/Jan, and E starting in May/Jun.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RosieD on November 10, 2013, 04:12:57 PM
Post by: RosieD on November 10, 2013, 04:12:57 PM
I must be really boring as my weight hasn't changed at all. Mind you it hadn't changed since I was 19 (aside from a spell of homelessness when I dropped to 112 lb) despite wild variations in what and how much I eat over the years.
Rosie.
Rosie.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 11, 2013, 02:33:34 AM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 11, 2013, 02:33:34 AM
Quote from: Mary81 on November 10, 2013, 02:48:55 PM
I was hungry all the time while I was on antidepressants, that is true. I also read that E can increase your appitite, but I haven't really noticed a change in that department. My tastes have changed a bit though. For example, I used to love spicy food and coffee and now I just have no desire to have either really.
Mary
I was just talking to a fully transitioned friend of mine about this.
She said: "I'm about 25lbs heavier than pre transition. I think you gain body fat big time, after years of hormones your body fat shifts to your hips and butt"
Obviously everyone is different, and we are hearing examples of weight gain and loss. I plan on getting as thin as I can before I start HRT, which should be soon.
I better not lose my love for spicy food! :o
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: SandraB on November 11, 2013, 01:21:42 PM
Post by: SandraB on November 11, 2013, 01:21:42 PM
In just the first few weeks, I've lost over 10 lbs. Of course I'm thrilled about this and want to work to continue in this direction. I'm on E and Spiro, both tabs.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: sam79 on November 11, 2013, 01:38:33 PM
Post by: sam79 on November 11, 2013, 01:38:33 PM
It seems that HRT made it a little easier to put weight on, but I still have to put in effort to put on anything much and keep it there. Losing it is still very easy.
Before HRT, I went from ~200lbs to about 145lbs. Since HRT, I've held my weight at my ideal weight of 160lbs.
Before HRT, I went from ~200lbs to about 145lbs. Since HRT, I've held my weight at my ideal weight of 160lbs.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Ataraxia on November 12, 2013, 07:56:43 AM
Post by: Ataraxia on November 12, 2013, 07:56:43 AM
Exercise and dieting notwithstanding, I think that whether hormones themselves make you gain or lose weight depends on how your body is starting out. If you're really muscular starting out, you're going to lose weight, because hormones will get rid of a lot of muscle. If you're starting out really thin and slender, you'll definitely gain weight, because you'll gain fat in the feminine areas (and in the undesirable areas as well, like your tummy).
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 12, 2013, 08:59:28 AM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 12, 2013, 08:59:28 AM
I just want to put this out there... HRT cannot make you gain weight!
HRT will change your metabolism (to what degree probably depends on where you were pre-HRT and what your genetics say you should be at). It's still a function of calories-in vs. calories-out... but if you don't change your "calories-in" to match the change in "calories-out" that HRT brings... you'll gain weight.
It may also change hunger significantly... but appetite is, in a big part, relative to the amount of food in your stomach and stomach size is fixed. This is a good article on it:
http://home.trainingpeaks.com/articles/nutrition/appetite-101.aspx
HRT will change your metabolism (to what degree probably depends on where you were pre-HRT and what your genetics say you should be at). It's still a function of calories-in vs. calories-out... but if you don't change your "calories-in" to match the change in "calories-out" that HRT brings... you'll gain weight.
It may also change hunger significantly... but appetite is, in a big part, relative to the amount of food in your stomach and stomach size is fixed. This is a good article on it:
http://home.trainingpeaks.com/articles/nutrition/appetite-101.aspx
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 12, 2013, 05:20:40 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 12, 2013, 05:20:40 PM
Quote from: kabit on November 12, 2013, 08:59:28 AM
I just want to put this out there... HRT cannot make you gain weight!
HRT will change your metabolism (to what degree probably depends on where you were pre-HRT and what your genetics say you should be at). It's still a function of calories-in vs. calories-out... but if you don't change your "calories-in" to match the change in "calories-out" that HRT brings... you'll gain weight.
It may also change hunger significantly... but appetite is, in a big part, relative to the amount of food in your stomach and stomach size is fixed. This is a good article on it:
http://home.trainingpeaks.com/articles/nutrition/appetite-101.aspx
This is very good info, Kabit. Thank you so much for posting it :)
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 12, 2013, 05:22:54 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 12, 2013, 05:22:54 PM
Quote from: Mary81 on November 10, 2013, 02:10:36 PM
At first I figured I would put some weight on, but instead I have lost another 3kg. I suppose it is muscle mass, but I am not sure. I hope it is.
Mary
Hi Mary,
Before I forget, I wanted to say that judging by your picture, you have a very feminine looking frame....and I'm SO jealous of your shoulders/upper arms :)
I can almost guarantee it's muscle mass that you're losing, you look great :)
Kelsie
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 12, 2013, 07:53:10 PM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 12, 2013, 07:53:10 PM
Quote from: KelsieJ on November 12, 2013, 05:20:40 PM
This is very good info, Kabit. Thank you so much for posting it :)
Thanks! I kind of stole it from another article I was reading... how "starvation mode" (where you "magically" gain weight because you're eating too little) is a myth. It's the same equation - metabolism changes, but it can't possibly change that much (from eating). HRT... it probably changes more than just diet can do, but the cals-in cals-out equation is always, always true.
♥ I'll know 1st hand soon enough!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 12, 2013, 08:25:27 PM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 12, 2013, 08:25:27 PM
Quote from: kabit on November 12, 2013, 08:59:28 AM
I just want to put this out there... HRT cannot make you gain weight!
HRT will change your metabolism (to what degree probably depends on where you were pre-HRT and what your genetics say you should be at). It's still a function of calories-in vs. calories-out... but if you don't change your "calories-in" to match the change in "calories-out" that HRT brings... you'll gain weight.
It may also change hunger significantly... but appetite is, in a big part, relative to the amount of food in your stomach and stomach size is fixed. This is a good article on it:
http://home.trainingpeaks.com/articles/nutrition/appetite-101.aspx
There's more than calories involved. If your metabolism is slower you won't burn off those calories. I know this all too well! This is why if you just eat less, but aren't active, your body will adjust and you won't lose much weight. Ten or so years ago I had gained quite a bit of weight from being depressed. Just reducing my calories didn't work, and I was active enough. I ended up taking one of those metabolism boosters, and then the weight dropped right off. It also made me terribly anxious!
Also pay attention to food density when it comes to eating. Some food will have too many calories but you won't feel full until you have eaten more than you should. So don't eat chips, and eat some carrots instead. They say if you are hungry have an apple. If you don't want an apple, then you weren't hungry.
I lost a lot of weight recently by not eating sweets and no snacking, and not eating much at all. I'm hungry all the time, but I feel and look much better than I did this time last year.
But generally, yes, reduce your caloric intake lower than what it should be. That means eat less! :)
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 13, 2013, 03:47:26 AM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 13, 2013, 03:47:26 AM
Quote from: RavenMoon on November 12, 2013, 08:25:27 PM
There's more than calories involved. If your metabolism is slower you won't burn off those calories. I know this all too well! This is why if you just eat less, but aren't active, your body will adjust and you won't lose much weight. Ten or so years ago I had gained quite a bit of weight from being depressed. Just reducing my calories didn't work, and I was active enough. I ended up taking one of those metabolism boosters, and then the weight dropped right off. It also made me terribly anxious!
Also pay attention to food density when it comes to eating. Some food will have too many calories but you won't feel full until you have eaten more than you should. So don't eat chips, and eat some carrots instead. They say if you are hungry have an apple. If you don't want an apple, then you weren't hungry.
I lost a lot of weight recently by not eating sweets and no snacking, and not eating much at all. I'm hungry all the time, but I feel and look much better than I did this time last year.
But generally, yes, reduce your caloric intake lower than what it should be. That means eat less! :)
Metabolism is the most important part of the "calories-out." Exercise is usually pretty negligible (although important for increasing your metabolism) and is actually a common source of overeating (if the calories you calculate from exercise are inflated). There are lots of other "hidden" sources of overeating, too. This is the article
http://www.aworkoutroutine.com/starvation-mode/
HRT clearly will affect metabolism - so no, you can't usually eat the same way on HRT as you did maintaining off HRT - which is probably why most people gain weight. After you're on HRT for 3+ months, and if you're having problems with weight, it might be a good idea to get your metabolic rate tested ... insurance may cover it if it's coded correctly (otherwise around $200). I haven't had this done, but in my weightloss/fitness forums people have done this (because of other life changes ;)).
I highly suggest anyone having weight control problems start counting calories and tracking weight. If you're gaining... you're eating too much and exercising too little... and there's little else you can do (aside from more medication) to fix it. Weigh yourself at the same time (mornings after peeing and before drinking or eating is best) either daily, and watching trends not <1 lb fluctuations, or weekly or monthly. Work with your doctor if necessary.
I wonder if someone could do a study... 25-50 trans* people pre and post HRT would be <$50k if metabolic equipment were rented/borrowed. It'd be even less if a university had their own (but then finding the people would be more impossible).
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 13, 2013, 06:58:50 AM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 13, 2013, 06:58:50 AM
People often over eat because of food density. Processed foods have more calories per once. So be the time you feel full you have over eaten! And you shouldn't stuff yourself anyway. But if you fill up on a salad that won't happen.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/weight-loss/NU00195
And while starvation mode is NOT a myth (don't use diet and exercise sites for info) it is something different and does not change the metabolism, but does burn fat:
"Starvation mode is a state in which the body is responding to prolonged periods of low energy intake levels. During short periods of energy abstinence, the human body will burn primarily free fatty acids from body fat stores. After prolonged periods of starvation the body has depleted its body fat and begins to burn lean tissue and muscle as a fuel source."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starvation_response
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/weight-loss/NU00195
And while starvation mode is NOT a myth (don't use diet and exercise sites for info) it is something different and does not change the metabolism, but does burn fat:
"Starvation mode is a state in which the body is responding to prolonged periods of low energy intake levels. During short periods of energy abstinence, the human body will burn primarily free fatty acids from body fat stores. After prolonged periods of starvation the body has depleted its body fat and begins to burn lean tissue and muscle as a fuel source."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starvation_response
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 13, 2013, 07:19:16 AM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 13, 2013, 07:19:16 AM
Quote from: RavenMoon on November 13, 2013, 06:58:50 AM
People often over eat because of food density. Processed foods have more calories per once. So be the time you feel full you have over eaten! And you shouldn't stuff yourself anyway. But if you fill up on a salad that won't happen.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/weight-loss/NU00195
This is definitely true. Eat bulky, low calorie foods. That has been my entire stratey!!
Quote from: RavenMoonAnd while starvation mode is NOT a myth (don't use diet and exercise sites for info) it is something different and does not change the metabolism, but does burn fat:
"Starvation mode is a state in which the body is responding to prolonged periods of low energy intake levels. During short periods of energy abstinence, the human body will burn primarily free fatty acids from body fat stores. After prolonged periods of starvation the body has depleted its body fat and begins to burn lean tissue and muscle as a fuel source."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starvation_response
Which, as the article points out, does not occur in any modern diet (with notable exceptions that truly overweight people do not have).
I agree that it's a feedback cycle... but it's definitely more about how much you put in your body than any sort of "starvation mode". Starvation mode, as used in "diet talk" is a myth. Starvation itself is not. You can eat too little... but it's very, very difficult to do (for those who are obese).
You cannot gain weight unless you have a calorie surplus. You cannot lose weight unless you have a calorie deficit. Figuring those out is the tough part... and HRT throws a wrench into the works. Tracking calories and weight is (pre-HRT) and will be (on HRT) necessary for me.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 05:54:54 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 05:54:54 PM
The food density angle is very interesting. I'm now doing a 950 calorie a day vegetarian diet - well, this weekend I went off of it but I'm back on it now. I've found that even with low calories, it's possible to pig out, lol!!
I don't feel hungry at all even though it's a diet. I think part of that is also due to the fact that I've gone from a predominantly meat/low-carb lifestyle to eating things like fruits now. I start the day with a glass of OJ and go to work. I come home for lunch, eat maybe 2 helpings of chopped potatoes and a veggie burger, go back to work, come home and eat some seasoned kale chips or something like that.
It's amazing how full it can make you feel
I don't feel hungry at all even though it's a diet. I think part of that is also due to the fact that I've gone from a predominantly meat/low-carb lifestyle to eating things like fruits now. I start the day with a glass of OJ and go to work. I come home for lunch, eat maybe 2 helpings of chopped potatoes and a veggie burger, go back to work, come home and eat some seasoned kale chips or something like that.
It's amazing how full it can make you feel
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Jennygirl on November 13, 2013, 06:23:00 PM
Post by: Jennygirl on November 13, 2013, 06:23:00 PM
The method of E administration can make a big difference on weight gain depending on the individual.
With any oral administration (where the majority of estradiol passes through the liver), there is a MUCH higher likelihood of weight gain due to estrone conversion by the liver. Estrone is horrible for you on so many levels, and is about 1/10th as effective for feminization compared to estradiol. It is what accounts for pretty much all of the negative side effects of oral HRT or birth control.
Bypassing the liver by any means is a good idea, so if you are worried about it I would get on injections, the patch, gels/creams, or pellets.
I did notice that when I was taking more progesterone for a brief period, I piled on the weight. I went from 125lbs to 147lbs in 3-4 months. But over the past 4 months, I lowered my progesterone dose and now I'm back at my ideal weight of 130- probably mainly due to appetite changes.
As we all know, hormone therapy works differently for everyone. In a way it's kind of a black art or science to get it right for each individual, and well versed endocrinologists that are sensitive to this fact can be hard to come by. Hopefully advances in transgender care will help a lot of them wise up and stop administering pills altogether.
With any oral administration (where the majority of estradiol passes through the liver), there is a MUCH higher likelihood of weight gain due to estrone conversion by the liver. Estrone is horrible for you on so many levels, and is about 1/10th as effective for feminization compared to estradiol. It is what accounts for pretty much all of the negative side effects of oral HRT or birth control.
Bypassing the liver by any means is a good idea, so if you are worried about it I would get on injections, the patch, gels/creams, or pellets.
I did notice that when I was taking more progesterone for a brief period, I piled on the weight. I went from 125lbs to 147lbs in 3-4 months. But over the past 4 months, I lowered my progesterone dose and now I'm back at my ideal weight of 130- probably mainly due to appetite changes.
As we all know, hormone therapy works differently for everyone. In a way it's kind of a black art or science to get it right for each individual, and well versed endocrinologists that are sensitive to this fact can be hard to come by. Hopefully advances in transgender care will help a lot of them wise up and stop administering pills altogether.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: FrancisAnn on November 13, 2013, 06:38:39 PM
Post by: FrancisAnn on November 13, 2013, 06:38:39 PM
Jenny Girl, Thank for your posts & knowledge. I'm sure glad I changed to patches a while ago. And it good to read that HRT does not "make" your body gain weight. I'm 5' 9" & now a fat 190 pounds. I'm trying to maybe get back down to 170, maybe.
Thanks again to everyone.
Thanks again to everyone.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 07:07:22 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 07:07:22 PM
Quote from: Jennygirl on November 13, 2013, 06:23:00 PM
The method of E administration can make a big difference on weight gain depending on the individual.
With any oral administration (where the majority of estradiol passes through the liver), there is a MUCH higher likelihood of weight gain due to estrone conversion by the liver. Estrone is horrible for you on so many levels, and is about 1/10th as effective for feminization compared to estradiol. It is what accounts for pretty much all of the negative side effects of oral HRT or birth control.
Bypassing the liver by any means is a good idea, so if you are worried about it I would get on injections, the patch, gels/creams, or pellets.
I had a sneaky suspicion that was the case, but I couldn't find anything concrete - everyone saying "well, estrogen is estrogen, but this *fill in the blank* worked best for me, or that *fill in the blank* worked best for me, lol
Thanks so much for this :D
Kelsie
Title: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 13, 2013, 08:38:58 PM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 13, 2013, 08:38:58 PM
Jenny, thanks for the info!
Kelsie, have you seen the documentary Forks Over Knives? They discuss food density and eating a plant based diet.
Kelsie, have you seen the documentary Forks Over Knives? They discuss food density and eating a plant based diet.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Jennygirl on November 13, 2013, 08:57:25 PM
Post by: Jennygirl on November 13, 2013, 08:57:25 PM
You are all so welcome! I am very happy to help :)
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 09:04:01 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 09:04:01 PM
Quote from: RavenMoon on November 13, 2013, 08:38:58 PM
Jenny, thanks for the info!
Kelsie, have you seen the documentary Forks Over Knives? They discuss food density and eating a plant based diet.
Haven't, no. Seemed a bit "new agey" at the time, snicker :P
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Tessa James on November 13, 2013, 09:28:05 PM
Post by: Tessa James on November 13, 2013, 09:28:05 PM
I am celebrating my 8th month on HRT by eating chocolate but only a couple of bites. My weight has been more volatile and up and down by 10 lbs. Before self acceptance as TG and transition I really didn't care much about my looks. Beer guts are fine for lots of guys and baggy jeans with sweatshirts was a common wardrobe choice for me. Clothes shopping? forget about it.
Now out fulltime, holy molly, the styles I like are much more clingy and revealing and now i do pay much closer attention to how I look. My wife likes to tease me about not fitting into that new dress but i suspect she may want the last donut here. Just kidding honey;) It certainly feels like the more I weigh myself and try to stay trim the hungrier I get! I like active outdoor stuff like hiking and cycling and find that also gets me hungry.
Dang I may have to go eat more chocolate right now. Thanks a bunch! ;D ;D ;D
Now out fulltime, holy molly, the styles I like are much more clingy and revealing and now i do pay much closer attention to how I look. My wife likes to tease me about not fitting into that new dress but i suspect she may want the last donut here. Just kidding honey;) It certainly feels like the more I weigh myself and try to stay trim the hungrier I get! I like active outdoor stuff like hiking and cycling and find that also gets me hungry.
Dang I may have to go eat more chocolate right now. Thanks a bunch! ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 13, 2013, 09:35:23 PM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 13, 2013, 09:35:23 PM
Quote from: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 09:04:01 PM
Haven't, no. Seemed a bit "new agey" at the time, snicker :P
Oh no, it's very scientific. It was so convincing I finally stopped eating meat. I wasn't eating much, but the info in it is quite sobering!
QuoteThrough an examination of the careers of American physician Caldwell Esselstyn and professor of nutritional biochemistry T. Colin Campbell, Forks Over Knives suggests that "most, if not all, of the degenerative diseases that afflict us can be controlled, or even reversed, by rejecting our present menu of animal-based and processed foods." It also provides an overview of the 20-year China-Cornell-Oxford Project that led to Professor Campbell's findings, outlined in his book, The China Study (2005) in which he suggests that coronary disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer can be linked to the Western diet of processed and animal-based foods (including all dairy products).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forks_over_Knives
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 09:58:25 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 09:58:25 PM
I'll watch it then (Netflix has it), thanks Raven :)
Processed food can't be good for you anyway, if you think about what they do to it. I don't understand why they add so many chemicals to food - doesn't it cost more for them to do that? I mean, let's look at a MuckBurger roll
Ingredients: Enriched flour (bleached wheat flour, malted barley flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), water, high fructose corn syrup and/or sugar, yeast, soybean oil and/or canola oil, contains 2% or less of the following: salt, wheat gluten, calcium sulfate, calcium carbonate, ammonium sulfate, ammonium chloride, dough conditioners (may contain one or more of the following: sodium stearoyl lactylate, datem, ascorbic acid, azodicarbonamide, mono- and diglycerides, ethoxylated monoglycerides, monocalcium phosphate, enzymes, guar gum, calcium peroxide), sorbic acid, calcium propionate and/or sodium propionate (preservatives), soy lecithin.
Anyone have a degree in chemistry here? Ok, I know what calcium carbonate and ascorbic acid are.......chalk and vitamin C, but what is azodicarbonamide or sodium stearoyl lactylate? And, what's it doing in bread?
Processed food can't be good for you anyway, if you think about what they do to it. I don't understand why they add so many chemicals to food - doesn't it cost more for them to do that? I mean, let's look at a MuckBurger roll
Ingredients: Enriched flour (bleached wheat flour, malted barley flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), water, high fructose corn syrup and/or sugar, yeast, soybean oil and/or canola oil, contains 2% or less of the following: salt, wheat gluten, calcium sulfate, calcium carbonate, ammonium sulfate, ammonium chloride, dough conditioners (may contain one or more of the following: sodium stearoyl lactylate, datem, ascorbic acid, azodicarbonamide, mono- and diglycerides, ethoxylated monoglycerides, monocalcium phosphate, enzymes, guar gum, calcium peroxide), sorbic acid, calcium propionate and/or sodium propionate (preservatives), soy lecithin.
Anyone have a degree in chemistry here? Ok, I know what calcium carbonate and ascorbic acid are.......chalk and vitamin C, but what is azodicarbonamide or sodium stearoyl lactylate? And, what's it doing in bread?
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Erin on November 13, 2013, 11:16:35 PM
Post by: Erin on November 13, 2013, 11:16:35 PM
Well I have lost close to 30 lbs in the last year. I should say I am 49 and I have done nothing to make it happen other than beginning HRT seven months ago. I am and was a very large person. Mostly in shape so it has mostly been muscle mass. I have dropped two inches in girth over my normal measure points in the last 4 months. Chest, upper arm, belly, and thigh.
I am using pills right now but want to move to injections.
Warning! the loss of muscle is body wide. I have begun to have more injuries especially to low back and joints now. I do physical work. (hoping to find less physical work someday) It is appropriate to discuss this with you medical person. Old injuries can come back with a vengeance. Be good to yourself.
I am using pills right now but want to move to injections.
Warning! the loss of muscle is body wide. I have begun to have more injuries especially to low back and joints now. I do physical work. (hoping to find less physical work someday) It is appropriate to discuss this with you medical person. Old injuries can come back with a vengeance. Be good to yourself.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KelsieJ on November 14, 2013, 04:28:04 PM
Post by: KelsieJ on November 14, 2013, 04:28:04 PM
I have found that I do injure more easily.......the past 6 weeks alone, broken wrist followed by plate and screws surgery.....teeth problems.......
I definitely bruise more easily - but wouldn't change it for the world! :)
I definitely bruise more easily - but wouldn't change it for the world! :)
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 15, 2013, 09:27:46 AM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 15, 2013, 09:27:46 AM
Quote from: KelsieJ on November 13, 2013, 09:58:25 PM
I'll watch it then (Netflix has it), thanks Raven :)
Processed food can't be good for you anyway, if you think about what they do to it. I don't understand why they add so many chemicals to food - doesn't it cost more for them to do that? I mean, let's look at a MuckBurger roll
Ingredients: Enriched flour (bleached wheat flour, malted barley flour, niacin, reduced iron, thiamin mononitrate, riboflavin, folic acid), water, high fructose corn syrup and/or sugar, yeast, soybean oil and/or canola oil, contains 2% or less of the following: salt, wheat gluten, calcium sulfate, calcium carbonate, ammonium sulfate, ammonium chloride, dough conditioners (may contain one or more of the following: sodium stearoyl lactylate, datem, ascorbic acid, azodicarbonamide, mono- and diglycerides, ethoxylated monoglycerides, monocalcium phosphate, enzymes, guar gum, calcium peroxide), sorbic acid, calcium propionate and/or sodium propionate (preservatives), soy lecithin.
Anyone have a degree in chemistry here? Ok, I know what calcium carbonate and ascorbic acid are.......chalk and vitamin C, but what is azodicarbonamide or sodium stearoyl lactylate? And, what's it doing in bread?
I think it's because of the very large quantities they do. Big vats filled with whatever. And it takes so long to process, that they need to add anti caking ingredients, preservatives, things to stop discoloration, etc. I recently read that every McDonalds burger has the meat from 1,000 different cows in it. That's disturbing to me. But I don't eat meat anymore anyway. I lost weight and feel much better too!
I also don't eat a lot of bread, but it was bothering me that all the bread I look at has high fructose corn syrup in it! I didn't even realize they put sugar in bread. So I started buying bread from Whole Foods. But now Arnold's has bread with no high fructose corn syrup in it. And another thing is all the bread companies seemed to have changed the plastic bags they use, and now before I can finish a loaf of bread, it's wet and soggy because the bags seal in moisture more than they used to. I complained to one company (with the funny name, Bimbo Bakery) and what did they do, they sent me coupons!
Here's the thing that bugs me, did any of these companies ask anyone if they want this junk in their food? It's all about them saving money. So we have no say in what we eat, unless we go out of our way to buy organic food, and the crazy part is it cost much more for having less junk in it!
But we are what we eat, so I try and not eat food with too many ingredients in it.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Carrie Liz on November 15, 2013, 12:09:00 PM
Post by: Carrie Liz on November 15, 2013, 12:09:00 PM
Okay, here's another documentary for people to watch:
"Fat Head"
This movie was basically made in response to the movie "Super Size Me," and it should be pretty enlightening in showing that you can indeed lose weight eating fast-food... provided that you control your carbohydrate intake. Also kind of works as a rebuttal to the whole low-fat anti-meat thing that "Forks Over Knives" is all about, showing that your bloodwork can actually get better even when you're dousing things in butter and eating a lot of red meat.
"Fat Head"
This movie was basically made in response to the movie "Super Size Me," and it should be pretty enlightening in showing that you can indeed lose weight eating fast-food... provided that you control your carbohydrate intake. Also kind of works as a rebuttal to the whole low-fat anti-meat thing that "Forks Over Knives" is all about, showing that your bloodwork can actually get better even when you're dousing things in butter and eating a lot of red meat.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Sophia Gubb on November 15, 2013, 01:08:10 PM
Post by: Sophia Gubb on November 15, 2013, 01:08:10 PM
I haven't gained wait, I might have lost some.
I've seen more than one friend who lost weight, though. I wonder if it's because they are more happy with themselves and more willing to eat better. I know if I ever wanted to make the effort to diet it wouldn't be such a mental strain for me anymore.
I've seen more than one friend who lost weight, though. I wonder if it's because they are more happy with themselves and more willing to eat better. I know if I ever wanted to make the effort to diet it wouldn't be such a mental strain for me anymore.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 15, 2013, 01:27:05 PM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 15, 2013, 01:27:05 PM
Quote from: Carrie Liz on November 15, 2013, 12:09:00 PM
Also kind of works as a rebuttal to the whole low-fat anti-meat thing that "Forks Over Knives" is all about, showing that your bloodwork can actually get better even when you're dousing things in butter and eating a lot of red meat.
The problem with animal fat is it's been inked to cancer; breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, and so on.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2057469
QuoteThe relationship between the per person supply of fat from dairy products and lard and cause-specific cancer mortality was examined using 1979-1981 FAO data from 36 countries. Significant correlations (P less than 0.01) were found between dairy and lard fat intake and total, breast, prostate, rectal, colon, and lung cancer. Significant relationships between site-specific cancer mortality and ischemic heart disease mortality could also be established. Hormone-dependent cancers significantly correlate with both hormone-dependent and non-hormone-dependent cancers of the opposite sex, pointing toward other than sex-linked factors as an explanation. The level of saturated fat intake provides the most plausible link for the relationship between the cancers considered and ischemic heart disease mortality. Our findings support the concept of the important role saturated fat plays in cancer promotion.
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/Healthday/story?id=7941764
http://www.nytimes.com/1990/12/13/us/animal-fat-is-tied-to-colon-cancer.html
Then they had the examples in Forks Over Knives where high animal protein intake is directly correlated to cancer too. There was the one part where they induced cancer in rats, while feeding them meat, and then took them off the meat and they went into remission, and then they reintroduced meat into the diet and the cancer returned.
Humans eat much differently now than we did in the past, and diet related diseases have increased along with it.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 15, 2013, 04:30:25 PM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 15, 2013, 04:30:25 PM
Quote from: Carrie Liz on November 15, 2013, 12:09:00 PM
Okay, here's another documentary for people to watch:
"Fat Head"
This movie was basically made in response to the movie "Super Size Me," and it should be pretty enlightening in showing that you can indeed lose weight eating fast-food... provided that you control your carbohydrate intake. Also kind of works as a rebuttal to the whole low-fat anti-meat thing that "Forks Over Knives" is all about, showing that your bloodwork can actually get better even when you're dousing things in butter and eating a lot of red meat.
This probably isn't in the same vein, but I often go to Wendy's or McDonald's for lunch... Wendy's salads are wonderful (Especially that apples and chicken w/ crumbled blue cheese one).... McDonald's salads are OK.
I don't see any problem with eating meat myself. I can respect the decision not to, but remember that everything should be in moderation. Nobody can avoid all carcinogens.
My salad based diet brought my total cholesterol from 205 down to 146... in TWO WEEKS (assuming it wasn't already lower from my normal schedule of poor diet and no exercise). I was not on cholesterol meds and my doctor said he can't get people's cholesterol down that low with them. My sugar also dropped - my A1c went from 7.5 to 6.9... my next test is next week... so we'll see how 3+ months is different than 2 weeks for that, too!
Health is not absolute. If it works for you, do it. I'm no food saint.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: RavenMoon on November 15, 2013, 11:12:47 PM
Post by: RavenMoon on November 15, 2013, 11:12:47 PM
I stopped eating meat for two reasons, one being the health implications, but the other is I'm an animal lover. In the US, 4,000 cows are killed an hour (100,000 a day). 23 million chickens every day. Some of those chickens get boiled alive! And 112 million pigs a year. None of these animals are treated well in factory farms. I would imagine that makes them even less healthy to eat.
I'm happy to say I no longer eat any of them. ;D
I'm happy to say I no longer eat any of them. ;D
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 09:18:17 AM
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 09:18:17 AM
I used to be 220, in great shape as a swam 100 and 200 butterfly races all the time like this.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv519%2Fbeme1248%2Fkasihnya%2Ffacedown.png&hash=4e5c304aa4d8fdbbbd9cf36bd43a868369b6c40b)
But like this morning. I am at 191 pounds. I weigh myself everyday and I have noticed that my weight fluctuates a lot. seem like right after a an estradiol shot, my weight goes up, and slowly comes down until the next one.But each time before the shot, i am a little lighter than on the previous cycle.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv519%2Fbeme1248%2Fkasihnya%2Ffacedown.png&hash=4e5c304aa4d8fdbbbd9cf36bd43a868369b6c40b)
But like this morning. I am at 191 pounds. I weigh myself everyday and I have noticed that my weight fluctuates a lot. seem like right after a an estradiol shot, my weight goes up, and slowly comes down until the next one.But each time before the shot, i am a little lighter than on the previous cycle.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 16, 2013, 09:39:46 AM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 16, 2013, 09:39:46 AM
Quote from: Ксениа on November 16, 2013, 09:18:17 AM
I used to be 220, in great shape as a swam 100 and 200 butterfly races all the time like this.
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv519%2Fbeme1248%2Fkasihnya%2Ffacedown.png&hash=4e5c304aa4d8fdbbbd9cf36bd43a868369b6c40b)
But like this morning. I am at 191 pounds. I weigh myself everyday and I have noticed that my weight fluctuates a lot. seem like right after a an estradiol shot, my weight goes up, and slowly comes down until the next one.But each time before the shot, i am a little lighter than on the previous cycle.
I was 180 and preferred the 500 free :) I was slow and steady... and if nobody wants to swim a race I get the points ;)
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 09:43:42 AM
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 09:43:42 AM
Quote from: kabit on November 16, 2013, 09:39:46 AM
I was 180 and preferred the 500 free :) I was slow and steady... and if nobody wants to swim a race I get the points ;)
I used to swim the 500 in HS, I was slow too, but then I didnt know how to swim butterfly. When I got into butterfly, my coaches realized I was a natural. Are you still 180?
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 16, 2013, 09:52:14 AM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 16, 2013, 09:52:14 AM
Quote from: Ксениа on November 16, 2013, 09:43:42 AM
I used to swim the 500 in HS, I was slow too, but then I didnt know how to swim butterfly. When I got into butterfly, my coaches realized I was a natural. Are you still 180?
I'm well on my way to getting back to 180!!
After HS I self medicated with food (carbs + obesity = sedated + halved testosterone). I maxed at 260... recently went from 235 (Aug 5 - my coming out day) to 190 (This past Thursday...)
I wasn't very strong and had no interest in lifting. Butterfly was tough for me. Back and Free were my best.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Violet Bloom on November 16, 2013, 10:20:20 AM
Post by: Violet Bloom on November 16, 2013, 10:20:20 AM
My weight has always been rock-stable, generally down to a decimal digit even! I am very thin but at a perfectly healthy weight and BMI. I would actually like to gain some weight but suspect this will be highly unlikely unless there is a substantial change to my 'industrial' metabolism. Having just started on Estrogen it will be very interesting to see if anything permanently changes up or down. I don't have much muscle mass available to lose so over all there may end up being an imbalance in the weight shifts. I seem to have gained appetite recently but so far I'm not eating more than usual.
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 10:23:55 AM
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 10:23:55 AM
Quote from: kabit on November 16, 2013, 09:52:14 AM
I'm well on my way to getting back to 180!!
After HS I self medicated with food (carbs + obesity = sedated + halved testosterone). I maxed at 260... recently went from 235 (Aug 5 - my coming out day) to 190 (This past Thursday...)
I wasn't very strong and had no interest in lifting. Butterfly was tough for me. Back and Free were my best.
Oh, now I see that you haven't seen an Endo so you are not on hormones yet??? What I noticed before I started HRT was that I stopped swimming and no longer swam at practice 15-20 hours a week. So I lost weight but not because I was losing fat, but because I was losing muscle mass over time. When I started HRT, the process accelerated, i lost muscle mass faster but a new problem arose... it was harder to keep the fat away so I stayed roughly in the same zone (190 - 195) since then even though I was still becoming smaller and smaller in size. At one point, i went back up to 202 pounds when I didn't work out, but now it is coming back down.
For swimming, butterfly takes a lot of strength, stamina, endurance, coordination, elasticity, and flexibility. People usually fail to realize that strength alone wont do it for butterfly. I have seen plenty of women kick mens butts in butterfly solely because the women had good technique. Most men thing to power through it, I always tried to apply technique first and then strength. But this isnt a thread of swimming. lol
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 10:30:09 AM
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 10:30:09 AM
Quote from: Violet Bloom on November 16, 2013, 10:20:20 AM
My weight has always been rock-stable, generally down to a decimal digit even! I am very thin but at a perfectly healthy weight and BMI. I would actually like to gain some weight but suspect this will be highly unlikely unless there is a substantial change to my 'industrial' metabolism. Having just started on Estrogen it will be very interesting to see if anything permanently changes up or down. I don't have much muscle mass available to lose so over all there may end up being an imbalance in the weight shifts. I seem to have gained appetite recently but so far I'm not eating more than usual.
The way that I see it, those who have nothing to lose will gain, and those who have a lot to lose will lose. If you are scrauny, no muscle, ect, you will probably get heavier. like I said befre, I noticed I have stayed about the same wieght, but I have gotten smaller. I lose mucle but gain fat.... but mostly in the correct places.
I think the thread should say, Wight gain or loss on HRT or the variable that make you stay the same.... or something like that. lol
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: KabitTarah on November 16, 2013, 10:46:02 AM
Post by: KabitTarah on November 16, 2013, 10:46:02 AM
Quote from: Ксениа on November 16, 2013, 10:23:55 AM
Oh, now I see that you haven't seen an Endo so you are not on hormones yet??? What I noticed before I started HRT was that I stopped swimming and no longer swam at practice 15-20 hours a week. So I lost weight but not because I was losing fat, but because I was losing muscle mass over time. When I started HRT, the process accelerated, i lost muscle mass faster but a new problem arose... it was harder to keep the fat away so I stayed roughly in the same zone (190 - 195) since then even though I was still becoming smaller and smaller in size. At one point, i went back up to 202 pounds when I didn't work out, but now it is coming back down.
For swimming, butterfly takes a lot of strength, stamina, endurance, coordination, elasticity, and flexibility. People usually fail to realize that strength alone wont do it for butterfly. I have seen plenty of women kick mens butts in butterfly solely because the women had good technique. Most men thing to power through it, I always tried to apply technique first and then strength. But this isnt a thread of swimming. lol
I can't WAIT for my endo appointment :D I plan on AA's only for a while.... then either low-dose E for a bit, or wait for full dose E in May/June. I hope that the summer will have the small changes and the winter brings the bigger ones.
I have very little muscle now... my arms are pretty scrawny. I still have some fat and muscle to lose, though. I'm sure I can hit 170 before starting E (May/June), especially since the AA's will help muscle reduce more.
From others' advice (here and elsewhere), I've started working out with lots of lower-body-strength cardio, stretching, and lower body / core work. I understand that lower body work will give some feminine appearance - upper body can just waste away (to some degree ;)) until I'm on E (Especially shoulders!!)
Flexibility was always my problem. I am working on flexibility but hopefully I see bonus gains there from HRT too?
Title: Re: Weight gain or loss on estrogen therapy?
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 04:58:12 PM
Post by: Cassie 4 Ever!!! on November 16, 2013, 04:58:12 PM
Quote from: kabit on November 16, 2013, 10:46:02 AM
I can't WAIT for my endo appointment :D I plan on AA's only for a while.... then either low-dose E for a bit, or wait for full dose E in May/June. I hope that the summer will have the small changes and the winter brings the bigger ones.
I have very little muscle now... my arms are pretty scrawny. I still have some fat and muscle to lose, though. I'm sure I can hit 170 before starting E (May/June), especially since the AA's will help muscle reduce more.
From others' advice (here and elsewhere), I've started working out with lots of lower-body-strength cardio, stretching, and lower body / core work. I understand that lower body work will give some feminine appearance - upper body can just waste away (to some degree ;)) until I'm on E (Especially shoulders!!)
Flexibility was always my problem. I am working on flexibility but hopefully I see bonus gains there from HRT too?
I saw a video recently that explain the transwomen need to work on our lower have so that our proportions are more like a natal female. I woman should be flexible in my own opinion. I have noticed that I have become slightly more flexible in some areas and I have not lost any flexibility and any area despite a lack of stretching in like a year.