Unexplained weight gain can be a frustrating and confusing condition. There are many potential causes, both medical and lifestyle-related. Common medical causes include thyroid disorders, PCOS, insulin resistance, Cushing's syndrome, and medication side effects. Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, sleep, and stress levels also play a major role.
Why does unexplained weight gain happen?
When we gain weight unexpectedly, it's often linked to shifts in our hormone levels or metabolism. Hormones like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and insulin regulate hunger cues, fat storage, and energy expenditure. If these hormones become imbalanced, it can disrupt normal weight regulation.
For example, conditions like hypothyroidism, PCOS, and insulin resistance cause hormonal changes that promote weight gain and make weight loss more difficult. The tricky thing is that the weight gain happens first, then the hormone imbalance is uncovered.
Other key reasons for sudden weight gain include:
- Medication side effects - Some medications like steroids or antidepressants may increase appetite or fluid retention
- Aging - As we get older, our metabolisms naturally slow down
- Lifestyle changes - Significant changes in diet, activity, sleep, or stress can tip the scales
- Genetics - Our genetic makeup plays a key role in tendency to gain or lose weight
If you’re struggling with
inexplicable weight gain, don’t panic. There are solutions. Getting to the root cause is key rather than focusing only on short-term fixes.
At Renew Hormone Institute, we specialize in uncovering the hormonal imbalances and metabolic dysfunctions leading to stubborn weight gain. We use advanced testing and personalized care plans to balance hormones, improve metabolic health, resolve underlying issues, and achieve sustainable weight loss from the inside out.
What tests help diagnose the cause?
Targeted
hormone testing can uncover issues with key metabolic and reproductive hormones like insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormones, estrogen, testosterone and growth hormone. These tests provide objective data to create customized treatment plans. We also test biomarkers of inflammation, lipids, and nutrients which give further insight.
What are the treatment options?
Treatment is based on the underlying cause found in testing. We often use
physician-supervised hormone balancing protocols to restore optimal hormonal interactions.
Lifestyle modifications like nutrition changes, stress reduction techniques, sleep hygiene, and exercise programming can also be extremely impactful.
With the right testing and strategic treatment approach, most cases of inexplicable weight gain can be successfully resolved.
Don't struggle alone if you're experiencing sudden unexplained weight gain - reach out to hormone health experts who can help you rediscover your healthiest self!