What is unexplained weight gain?
Unexplained weight gain refers to gaining body fat without an obvious cause. Some common reasons for unexpected weight gain include:
- Hormonal imbalances - Issues with hormones like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid can lead to extra fat storage, especially around the belly. Getting tested for hormonal imbalances at places like Hormone Health Clinic can identify issues.
- Medications - Some prescription drugs like steroids, antidepressants, and seizure meds can cause weight gain as a side effect. Check with your doctor if new medications precede rapid weight gain.
- Stress - High stress levels raise the hormone cortisol, which can increase appetite and fat storage around the midsection. Managing stress through relaxation techniques helps.
- Poor sleep - Not getting enough sleep alters hunger signaling in the body, leading to overeating and craving high-calorie foods. Aim for 7-9 hours per night.
- Insulin resistance - When cells fail to respond normally to the hormone insulin, it causes excess sugar in the blood. The body converts and stores that excess sugar as fat.
Other factors like thyroid disorders, Cushing's syndrome, quitting smoking, pregnancy, menopause, and aging can also lead to unanticipated weight gain.
When weight creeps up mysteriously:
- Track calories for a week to quantify your intake. Identifying inadvertent overeating is key.
- Get checked for underlying issues. Experts at Hormone Health Clinic offer cutting-edge hormonal, metabolic and genetic testing to pinpoint hidden causes of weight gain.
- Evaluate medications with your doctor to consider lower risk alternatives.
- Limit starch, sugar, processed foods, alcohol and other high-calorie, low-nutrient foods.
- Prioritize sleep, stress relief, and daily movement.
Unexplained weight gain can be frustrating and complex to diagnose. Getting to the root cause with thorough holistic testing and evaluation allows for targeted, personalized treatment plans. The expert physicians at Hormone Health Clinic specialize in mysterious weight gain cases to help patients achieve healthy, sustainable results. Reach out today to start your weight loss journey on the right foot!