Inability to lose weight refers to a situation where body weight does not decrease or even increases over a long period. This is often связано with hormonal imbalances, metabolic disorders, and disrupted energy balance.
Normally, the body burns the energy it consumes. However, in some cases, this process slows down, and fat burning becomes ineffective.
👉 Important:
Weight loss is not always about “eat less, move more.” In many cases, there are underlying medical causes.
🔍 Main causes of inability to lose weight
1. Thyroid disorders (Hypothyroidism)
The thyroid gland regulates metabolism. When it functions poorly, metabolism slows down.
Symptoms:
- Fatigue and drowsiness
- Sensitivity to cold
- Constipation, dry skin
- Weight gain
Tests: TSH, FT4
Treatment: Hormone replacement (levothyroxine)
2. Insulin resistance and prediabetes
Reduced sensitivity to insulin leads to fat accumulation.
Symptoms:
- Abdominal obesity
- Frequent hunger
- Sleepiness after meals
- Skin darkening
Tests: HOMA-IR, HbA1c, glucose
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Hormonal imbalance that contributes to weight gain.
4. High cortisol and chronic stress
Chronic stress increases cortisol, reducing fat burning.
5. Sleep disorders and sleep apnea
Poor sleep disrupts metabolism and hormones.
6. Psychological factors
Stress and depression affect appetite and hormones.
7. Hormonal changes (menopause, andropause)
8. Medication side effects
- Corticosteroids
- Antidepressants
- Beta-blockers
⚠️ Do not stop medications without consulting a doctor.
9. Lifestyle factors
- Sugary, processed foods
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Lack of sleep
🧪 Recommended tests
- TSH, FT4, Anti-TPO
- Glucose, insulin (HOMA-IR)
- Cortisol, DHEA-S
- Hormones
- Vitamin D, B12, iron
⚙️ What can help?
- Identify the root cause
- Consult a doctor
- Balanced diet (protein + fiber)
- 30–40 minutes of activity daily
- Stress management
- Proper sleep
📌 Conclusion
Weight loss resistance is not just about diet.
It is often a sign of hormonal or metabolic imbalance.
👉 If diet and exercise don’t work — consult an endocrinologist and dietitian.
Dr.Amaliya Rahimova
