Another hormone in the “Understanding Hormones” series that can impact weight loss is Motilin. This hormone functions by triggering contractions in the small intestine during digestion to move it to the large intestine. It also plays a role in our bodies hunger cues and insulin release. So how does this affect our weight loss?
Effects of High/Low Motilin
Too little motilin can cause hypomotility, or minimal and slow muscle contractions in the small intestine. There are gastrointestinal diseases associated with this including chronic constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, gastroparesis, dyspepsia, and intestinal pseudo-obstruction.
Too much motilin (abnormal amounts) can cause faster than usual digestion due to more muscle contractions. Diabetes and ulcerative colitis are associated with high levels of motilin. It is important to note that motilin rises during the fasting period and after digesting a meal but drops when eating a meal.
Bottom line
It’s important to make sure our hormones are within normal ranges, otherwise they may negatively affect our ability to keep off weight loss or cause disease. Having a well-balanced diet, regularly exercising, getting adequate quality and quantity on a schedule, and avoiding smoking and alcohol are all ways that can help maintain our hormones within normal range. Our bodies need proper nutrition and rest to function its best, especially when beginning your weight loss journey. You can always talk to your primary care physician or endocrinologist if there are any serious concerns you may have regarding your hormones.
Written by GUADS Summer intern Carla with contributions from www.selfhacked.com
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