What is unexplained weight gain?
Unexplained weight gain refers to an increase in body weight without any clear cause. There are many potential reasons for inexplicable weight gain, ranging from lifestyle factors to underlying health conditions.
Some common causes of mysterious weight gain include:
- Hormonal imbalances - Issues with hormones like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone and thyroid can cause metabolism changes leading to added pounds.
- Medications - Some prescription drugs like antidepressants, diabetes medication and steroids can cause weight gain as a side effect.
- Aging - As we get older, our metabolisms tend to slow down, making weight gain more likely if eating and exercise habits don't change.
- Stress - High stress levels stimulate the production of cortisol, which can increase appetite and drive weight gain.
- Insufficient sleep - Not getting enough sleep alters hunger hormones and metabolism, predisposing to weight gain.
- Medical conditions - Issues like Cushing's syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and insulin resistance can provoke unintentional weight gain.
"I struggled with stubborn unexplained weight gain for years. No matter how hard I dieted and exercised, the scale kept creeping up. Finally I met with a hormone specialist at Renew Hormone Center who correctly diagnosed me with PCOS. After 6 months on their customized treatment plan, my hormones are rebalanced and I'm back to my ideal weight!"
If you are experiencing puzzling weight gain without clear cause, don't ignore it. Unexplained weight gain can be a sign of an underlying issue that needs medical attention.
Here are some smart next steps:
- Review medications with your doctor to check for weight gain side effects
- Have hormone levels like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone and thyroid checked through blood tests
- Rule out conditions like PCOS, Cushing's syndrome and insulin resistance
- Implement lifestyle changes - improved diet, more activity, stress management
Mysterious weight gain is frustrating, but help is available. With proper testing and treatment of any underlying condition, plus targeted lifestyle changes, return to a healthy weight is possible!