You eat better, you move more, and the scale still won’t budge. It is frustrating, and it is easy to blame yourself. But weight isn’t only a matter of willpower. Medical factors can make weight loss much harder, and many of them can be identified and treated.
8 medical reasons weight loss can stall
- 1. Thyroid problems. An underactive thyroid can slow your metabolism and cause weight gain, tiredness and feeling cold.
- 2. Insulin resistance or prediabetes. When your body doesn’t respond well to insulin, it can be harder to lose weight and easier to gain it.
- 3. Hormonal changes. Menopause, perimenopause and conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect weight and where it is stored.
- 4. Medications. Some medicines used for depression, diabetes, high blood pressure, allergies or inflammation can contribute to weight gain.
- 5. Poor sleep or sleep apnea. Too little sleep raises hunger hormones, and untreated sleep apnea is linked to weight gain.
- 6. Chronic stress. Ongoing stress can increase appetite, cravings and emotional eating. Learn more about mental wellness support.
- 7. Loss of muscle with age. Muscle mass tends to decline over time, which can lower the calories you burn at rest.
- 8. Yo-yo dieting. Repeated crash diets can make it harder to keep weight off and leave you discouraged.
Please don’t stop a medication on your own
If you think a medicine is affecting your weight, talk to your doctor first. Stopping some medications suddenly can be harmful, and there may be safer alternatives.
What a doctor can do
- Review your medical history, medications and family history
- Check your vital signs and measurements
- Order tests when they are appropriate, such as blood sugar or thyroid checks
- Build a plan around the cause, not a one-size-fits-all diet
Signs it is time to get medical help
- You have tried several plans without lasting results
- You are gaining weight without a clear reason
- You also have fatigue, irregular periods, loud snoring or constant thirst
- You have a condition such as high blood pressure or diabetes
Medical weight loss at Primerose Medical P.C.
Our medical weight loss program begins with a full evaluation, followed by a personalized plan, close monitoring and ongoing support. If extra weight is also affecting your joints, read how weight loss can help knee pain.
Frequently asked questions
Is it normal for weight loss to plateau?
Yes. A plateau is common, but if progress has stopped for weeks despite steady effort, a check-up can help find out why.
Can a medical condition cause weight gain?
Yes. Thyroid conditions, insulin resistance and hormonal changes are some examples, and your doctor can check for them.
Tired of guessing what is holding you back? Book an appointment online or call (631) 486-4834.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Results vary from person to person.
