Maintaining a healthy weight involves a combination of factors, including a balanced diet, portion control, and physical activity. However, when efforts to shed pounds prove futile despite adhering to these principles, it might be time to consult a medical professional. Weight gain, even when following a healthy eating regimen, can signal underlying health issues that necessitate thorough examination and testing. We spoke with experts to delve into this matter further.
Possible Reasons Why You’re Not Losing Weight Even After Eating Healthy
A Body Mass Index (BMI) exceeding 25 indicates overweight, and a BMI exceeding 30 is classified as obesity, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Disturbingly, from 1975 to 2016, WHO reported a more than fourfold increase in overweight or obese children and adolescents aged 5–19 globally, largely attributed to lifestyle choices. However, certain medical conditions can also contribute to unexplained weight gain, as Mayo Clinic notes.
Dr. Shobha Subramanian-Itolikar, a Consultant Physician at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, explains that thyroid disorders, such as hypothyroidism, can hinder weight loss or lead to weight gain even with a healthy diet. Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD) in females and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) in males have also been linked to increased obesity risk. Furthermore, Cushing syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and other disorders can cause obesity. Health problems like arthritis can reduce physical activity, contributing to weight gain.
Tests That Can Help Identify Potential Causes
Dr. Meenakshi Mohan, a Consultant Pathologist at Neuberg Pulse Diagnostics, Kolkata, emphasizes that various underlying medical conditions can contribute to unexplained weight gain. To pinpoint the cause, taking specific tests can be crucial:
- Thyroid Function Tests: Assessing the functioning of the thyroid gland is vital since an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can slow metabolism, making weight gain easier. Tests like TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) and T4 (thyroxine) levels can help evaluate thyroid function and detect issues affecting weight.
- Insulin Resistance and Glucose Tolerance Test: Insulin resistance can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, promoting fat storage and hindering weight loss. A glucose tolerance test can gauge how the body responds to glucose intake, helping to identify insulin resistance and manage it early.
- Hormone Panel: Hormonal imbalances in cortisol, leptin, ghrelin, and sex hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can influence weight gain and fat distribution. A comprehensive hormone panel can reveal crucial insights.
- Food Sensitivity Testing: Weight gain may be linked to underlying food sensitivities or intolerances that trigger inflammation and water retention. Identifying and eliminating trigger foods can aid weight loss and overall well-being.
- Gut Health Evaluation: Imbalances in gut bacteria can impact digestion, nutrient absorption, metabolism, and weight gain. Tests analyzing gut bacteria composition can uncover any dysbiosis contributing to weight gain, even with a healthy diet.
If you’re diligently following a healthy eating regimen and still experiencing weight gain, seeking medical advice and undergoing necessary tests is crucial. It’s essential to remember that while a balanced diet is a cornerstone of good health, it may not always be the sole solution to underlying medical conditions.
