There isn't one single hormone that directly "burns fat." Instead, several hormones work together to regulate metabolism, appetite, and energy expenditure, influencing fat storage and burning. Here are a few key players:
- Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF): This hormone helps release stored sugar and fat, providing fuel for the body between meals. It's considered a fat-burning hormone when understood within the context of the Liver Body Type dietary approach.
- Growth Hormone (GH): Produced by the pituitary gland, GH is crucial for muscle growth and fat breakdown.
- Leptin: This hormone is released by fat cells and signals to the brain to reduce appetite.
- Insulin: Although primarily known for regulating blood sugar, insulin also promotes fat storage. Maintaining balanced insulin levels is vital for effective fat burning.
- Thyroid Hormones: These hormones regulate metabolism and can influence weight management.
- Sex Hormones: Estrogen and testosterone play a role in fat distribution and metabolism.
Additionally, brown fat, a type of fat that burns energy to produce heat, is stimulated by certain hormones released during exercise, such as irisn.
Understanding how these hormones interact is crucial for managing weight and promoting healthy fat burning.