Medical Weight Loss

Why Can’t I Lose Weight?

Obesity can be controlled and corrected, but according to the Mayo Clinic, many outside factors may contribute to this condition including:

Genetics: Genetics play a role in how efficiently your body can store or convert energy, as well as how it burns calories during the day.

Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions like Prader-Willi syndrome, Cushing’s syndrome, and arthritis, can lead to excessive weight gain or make exercising difficult.

Eating Habits: Consuming foods and beverages that are high in calories or served in oversized portions can lead to quick weight gain.

Inactivity: If you are generally inactive, there is a much higher chance of becoming obese. Those who are sedentary could experience significant weight gain as they are taking in more calories per day than they are burning.

Lifestyle: Many families tend to share similar interests in their eating and exercise habits. If parents are inactive and have poor diets, their children will likely have the same habits too.

Certain Medications: Some medications have rapid weight gain as a side effect. Unless managed with a diet or regimented exercise, it has the potential to lead to continual weight gain and eventually obesity.

Age: Obesity is present in people of all ages, but there is a higher chance of becoming obese as we get older Our metabolisms slow down as we age, and we often are not as active, which can in turn cause obesity in some individuals.

Pregnancy: Most women gain weight during pregnancy, and many find it difficult to shed the weight once their child is born. For some, it can lead to more weight gain over the years.

Quitting Smoking: A common side effect of quitting smoking is weight gain and if left uncontrolled, it can lead to obesity.

Lack of Sleep: Lack of sleep can disrupt the hormones that regulate appetite, especially if it happens often. Often, cravings are for high-calorie foods and carbohydrates, the most common contributors to weight gain.

Social and Economic Issues: Some people are obese due to social and economic issues such as unsafe areas to exercise, lack of cooking skills, or insufficient access or funds to healthier foods. These issues can have a long-term effect on a person’s weight.