Wednesday, March 7, 2012

The Hormone Connection

I've always believed that hormones play a role in the level of heart palpitations I experience. Whether it be an increased level of stress, menstrual or pregnancy hormones, the pacemaker in my heart has often responded with more paused, heavy beats. And although I've known for several years now that I'm predisposed towards Type II diabetes (because my father is diabetic and I was gestational diabetic with both my girls), I hadn't fully realized the hormone connection between insulin and my heart palpitations until recently. In my previous post, I mentioned that I was in a sugar detox/weight loss program. 2 months later and 10 pounds lighter, I'm still going strong. I have greatly reduced the number of processed sugars and carbohydrates in my diet. After reading what I believe is must-read for everybody, "Why We Get Fat and What to Do About It" by Gary Taubes, I was even more convicted in the belief that an abundance of carbohydrates in our Western diet has had detrimental consequences to our health and well being. I can honestly say that despite having a 3 month old and a 3 year old, I have never felt more energized and healthy. Better yet, I haven't had a bout of palpitations since I started the detox. Do I claim that this is the cure for heart palpitations? Certainly not. As I mentioned before, I believe that many different hormones play a role in our experience of the dance. I also believe that for whatever reason, we will have periods in our life, where we are not bothered by them as much. Luck, blessing, or discovery, I'll take the respite anyway I can get it. And you might think that sugar doesn't effect you and/or you might not be overweight, but it might be worth it to look into reducing your total carbohydrates in your diet. Ask your doctor of course.

3 comments:

Mrs. Aranda said...

Hi Ali, I am so glad to hear you are feeling well! I too can attest to the hormone AND the sugar connections. Menstrual cycles will definitely bring an increase in palpitations, as will drops/spikes in blood sugar (especially after skipping meals). Another major trigger is not being properly hydrated. SO much to think about! But, I must also say that I have felt much better in the last few months. Like you, I don't question it, I'm just grateful for a peaceful heart. I think I might look into the book you mentioned. Did you get the sugar detox program from this book as well? Thanks for sharing!! ~Addy

Ali said...

Hi Addy,
Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. That's wonderful that you are feeling so much better recently! And I definitely hear you on the staying hydrated part. I try to drink the recommended amount every day. I just updated "My Favorites" section of the two books I have recently referenced. I got the sugar detox program from "The Sugar Addict's Total Recovery Program" as it is more of a step-by-step approach on how to break the addiction. "Why We Get Fat" is more of a historical and scientific look at why we get fat and what to do about it. I think they're both great reads. May your heart be steady today and in the future. Good luck!

Rose From ConQrete said...

I agree with the hormonal aspect that plays a role. I believe my hormoes have been out of wack since stopping depo provera and every since I have stopped I have been diagnosed w/ anxiety, palpitations are worst, im ridiculously emotional! I'm going to talk to my Dr. More about it because I want to strongly rule out everything that could be causing palpitations since I'm 'perfectly healthy"