Estrogen

Estrogen in excess or relative dominance to Progesterone can impair metabolism by promoting fat storage, altering glucose and insulin signaling, and contributing to features of metabolic syndrome like weight gain, insulin resistance, and unfavorable fat distribution.

It also interacts with the brain’s stress circuitry and HPA axis, amplifying stress reactivity and mood vulnerability when levels or receptor signaling are imbalanced, which can increase perceived stress and dysregulate energy homeostasis.