Why Can’t I Lose Weight? 5 Medical Reasons You Might Be Overlooking

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating your metabolism, appetite, and fat storage. An imbalance in hormones such as insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormones, or sex hormones can significantly impact your ability to shed weight. For example:

• Hypothyroidism slows down metabolism, leading to weight gain or difficulty losing weight.
• Insulin resistance can cause the body to store excess fat, particularly around the abdomen.
• Elevated cortisol levels due to chronic stress can trigger cravings for high-calorie foods.

If you suspect a hormonal imbalance, consulting a healthcare professional for a blood test can provide clarity and guide appropriate treatment.

2. Sleep Deprivation

Quality sleep is essential for overall health, including weight management. Inadequate sleep affects the hormones that regulate hunger — ghrelin and leptin. When you do not get enough sleep:

• Ghrelin levels increase, making you feel hungrier.
• Leptin levels decrease, reducing feelings of fullness.

This imbalance can lead to overeating and make it harder for your body to burn calories effectively. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine can support both your sleep quality and weight loss journey.

3. Chronic Stress

Living under constant stress prompts your body to produce more cortisol. This stress hormone not only increases appetite but also encourages fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area. Additionally, many people turn to 'comfort foods' high in sugar and fat as a coping mechanism.

Managing stress through mindfulness practices, physical activity, or speaking to a therapist can help restore balance and support your weight management goals.

4. Medications

Certain prescription medications may cause weight gain or make it harder to lose weight. These can include:

• Antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs
• Steroids for inflammatory conditions
• Beta-blockers for heart disease or high blood pressure

If you believe your medication is affecting your weight, do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor. A healthcare professional can assess your treatment plan and discuss possible alternatives or strategies to mitigate the side effects.

5. Underlying Medical Conditions

Several medical conditions can hinder weight loss, even when you are following a healthy lifestyle. These may include:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder affecting women
• Cushing’s syndrome, which results in high cortisol levels
• Insulin resistance or prediabetes

If you have unexplained weight gain or struggle to lose weight despite making positive lifestyle changes, it may be worth discussing these potential conditions with your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve both your health and your ability to manage your weight.

What Can You Do Next?

If you feel stuck in your weight loss journey, it is important not to lose hope. Medical factors may be playing a larger role than you realise. Consider the following steps:

• Speak to a healthcare professional about your concerns and request relevant tests.
• Track your symptoms — beyond just your weight — including sleep patterns, stress levels, and appetite changes.
• Personalised weight management plans that address underlying medical issues can be more effective than generic diet plans.