Unexplained weight gain - Rebalance Hormone Clinic

Unexplained weight gain can be frustrating and concerning. There are a few potential causes to consider if you notice your weight increasing unexpectedly:

• Hormone changes - Fluctuations in hormones like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones can lead to changes in metabolism and fluid retention. This may happen during puberty, menopause, or other hormonal life stages.
• Medications - Some prescription drugs like corticosteroids, antidepressants, seizure medications, and diabetes medications can cause weight gain as a side effect.
• Underlying health conditions - Issues like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), Cushing's disease, and hypothyroidism can disrupt the body's ability to regulate weight.
• Lifestyle factors - Lack of exercise, increased calorie intake, stress, and poor sleep habits can promote weight gain over time. Evaluate if changes to your daily habits correlate with unexplained weight changes.

To identify the potential cause, start by making an appointment with your doctor for an evaluation. Your physician can:

• Ask questions about your medical history.
• Conduct lab tests to check your hormone, blood sugar, and nutrient levels.
• Assess for any underlying conditions.
• Review all medications you currently take.

From there, your doctor can rule out any medical issues and pinpoint lifestyle factors that could be tweaked. To manage inexplicable weight gain, implementing healthy lifestyle changes is key:

• Increase exercise - Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
• Improve diet - Reduce calorie intake, limit processed foods, and eat more fiber and protein.
• Address stress - Make time for stress relief through yoga, meditation, etc.
• Optimize sleep habits - Aim for 7-9 hours per night.

Additionally, some helpful strategies include:

• Tracking your calories
• Weighing yourself weekly
• Cutting back on added sugars and refined carbs
• Increasing water intake
• Building muscle through strength training

Be patient through the process. With consistent healthy changes over time and your doctor's guidance, you can overcome frustrating weight gain struggles. Let me know if you have any other questions!