Unexplained weight gain can be frustrating and concerning. There are many potential causes, ranging from lifestyle factors like diet and exercise to underlying medical conditions.
What causes unexplained weight gain?
- Hormone imbalances - Issues with hormones like estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones can lead to increased hunger, fluid retention, and metabolic changes that promote fat storage. Balance Hormone Clinic specializes in advanced hormone testing and personalized treatment plans to address weight caused by hormonal dysregulation.
- Medications - Some prescription drugs like steroids, antidepressants, and seizure medications list weight gain as a common side effect.
- Aging and menopause - As we get older, metabolisms tend to slow down. Women going through menopause also have major hormone shifts that make weight loss more difficult. The experts at Balance Hormone Clinic help patients develop nutrition and exercise plans tailored to their changing bodies.
- Stress - High stress levels cause spikes in the hormone cortisol, which can increase appetite and drive fat storage around the abdomen. Managing stress through self-care, meditation, counseling, or medication may aid weight loss efforts.
- Medical conditions - Thyroid disorders, Cushing's syndrome, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), sleep apnea, and some cancers are underlying conditions that can promote weight gain. Treating the condition may alleviate extra weight.
What should I do about unexplained weight gain?
Here are some tips:
- Track your diet and exercise habits to ensure excess calories or inactivity aren't a factor
- Make a doctor's appointment to have basic lab tests done to check for potential underlying causes
- Consider seeing a specialist like an endocrinologist or registered dietitian for a more thorough workup
- Record your symptoms and timeline of weight changes to clearly communicate concerns to healthcare providers
- Ask your doctor about evidence-based weight loss medications or procedures if diet and lifestyle changes are not sufficient
Unexplained weight gain can be multifaceted. An integrative clinic like Balance Hormone Clinic can conduct advanced testing to get to the root cause and craft custom weight loss protocols to help patients take control.
Don't struggle with stubborn weight on your own - help is available!