METABOLIC & HORMONAL HEALTH

Metabolism and hormones are closely connected, influencing how the body uses energy, regulates blood sugar, stores fat and responds to hunger. When these processes are disrupted, the effects can extend beyond weight changes, contributing to fatigue, irregular menstrual cycles, difficulties managing blood glucose and other symptoms that affect daily life.

Conditions such as insulin resistance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders and hormonal changes during menopause can all influence nutritional requirements. Although diet alone cannot correct every hormonal imbalance, appropriate nutritional care can help manage the associated symptoms, improve metabolic markers and reduce the risk of long-term complications.

Understanding what is happening in the body is an important first step. A clinical dietitian will consider these before recommending dietary changes:

• Medical history
• Relevant blood results
• Current medication
• Eating patterns
• Lifestyle factors

INSULIN RESISTANCE AND METABOLIC HEALTH

Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose move from the bloodstream into the body’s cells, where it can be used for energy. Insulin resistance occurs when these cells become less responsive to its effects, making it harder to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

Over time, this can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It is also commonly associated with PCOS and excess abdominal fat, although it can occur in people of different body sizes.

Nutritional treatment focuses on improving blood glucose regulation and supporting cardiovascular health. This may involve adjusting carbohydrate portions, increasing fibre intake, choosing healthier fat sources, and ensuring meals provide enough protein. Regular physical activity and consistent eating habits can also improve insulin sensitivity.

HORMONAL CHANGES, PCOS AND THYROID HEALTH

Hormonal conditions can affect appetite, energy levels, menstrual health and body composition, but their nutritional management depends on the underlying diagnosis.

In women with PCOS, insulin resistance is common and may contribute to metabolic difficulties. Dietary care can help address these concerns while ensuring adequate nourishment and avoiding restrictive eating patterns. Any nutritional recommendation should reflect each patient’s symptoms, health goals, and preferences.

Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, can also influence energy expenditure and cholesterol levels. Nutrition may help address deficiencies and support general health, but it does not replace prescribed thyroid treatment.

During perimenopause and menopause, declining oestrogen levels can contribute to changes in fat distribution, cholesterol and bone density. Adequate protein, calcium and vitamin D, together with resistance exercise, become particularly important for preserving muscle and skeletal health.

NUTRITIONAL CARE THAT REFLECTS YOUR NEEDS

Metabolic and hormonal conditions rarely respond to a one-size-fits-all approach. Dietary recommendations need to account for the diagnosis, current treatment, nutritional status, and the changes a patient can realistically maintain.

Follow-up consultations allow the specialist to understand your progress, any new symptoms, and changes in eating habits, rather than focusing on body weight alone. The purpose of clinical dietetic care is to make nutrition a useful part of medical management, helping patients address specific concerns, protect their long-term health and develop a more confident relationship with food.

To book a consultation for abdominoplasty or for more information, contact us +971 50 494 6377 to schedule an appointment with our clinical dietitian, Maria Liliana Ciraulo.

Maria Liliana Ciraulo is an Italian Clinical Dietitian with over 6 years of clinical experience treating international patients in Europe and the UAE.

She holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s Degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition from the prestigious University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, graduating top of her class with honours and special mention. Maria holds multiple national and international certifications in functional nutrition, including the International Certification in Functional Medicine from the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M). She is a member of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M), the Nutrition Network, and the International Lipoedema Association.