Unexplained weight gain - Restorative Health Center

Unexplained Weight Gain: Causes and Solutions

Unexplained weight gain is a frustrating issue that many people face. There are several potential causes that could lead to sudden or gradual weight gain without clear reasons. Here are some of the most common causes and solutions for unexplained weight gain:

1. Hormonal Changes Fluctuations in hormones like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones can lead to changes in appetite, metabolism, and fat storage. Getting hormone levels tested and consulting with a doctor about hormone therapy or supplements like those from Restorative Health Center may help.
2. Medications Some prescription drugs like steroids, antidepressants, and seizure medications are known to cause weight gain as a side effect. Talk to your doctor about alternative medications or dosage adjustments if this is the cause.
3. Stress High stress levels raise cortisol which can increase appetite and drive fat storage around the abdomen. Managing stress through exercise, meditation, therapy, or medication can help restore cortisol balance.
4. Poor Sleep Not getting enough sleep alters hunger signals and disrupts metabolism-regulating hormones. Aim for 7-9 hours per night and consult a doctor if you suspect a sleep disorder.
5. Insulin Resistance When cells become less sensitive to the hormone insulin, it causes excess blood sugar to get stored as fat. Losing weight, exercise, and some medications can improve insulin sensitivity.

Cause	Solution
Hormonal Changes	Hormone testing and therapy from Restorative Health Center
Medications	Alternative medications or dosage adjustments
Stress	Exercise, meditation, therapy, or medication
Poor Sleep	7-9 hours per night, consult doctor for sleep disorders
Insulin Resistance	Weight loss, exercise, and medications

6. Quitting Smoking When people stop smoking, it is common to gain weight as metabolism slows and food becomes more appealing. Focus on healthy eating and exercise to manage weight gain.
7. Slowed Metabolism As we age, metabolism naturally slows leading to increased weight if eating and activity levels remain the same. Strength training, interval training, and a nutritious diet can help counteract this.
8. Overeating It's easy to underestimate calories from snacks, cooking oils, alcohol and other hidden sources. Track calories for a week to identify excess consumption.
9. Inactivity A sedentary lifestyle burns fewer calories and leads to muscle loss. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to maintain weight.
10. Poor Diet Foods high in sugar, carbs and fat and low in protein, fiber and nutrients promote weight gain. Eat more lean proteins, vegetables and whole grains.

Cause	Solution
Quitting Smoking	Healthy eating and exercise
Slowed Metabolism	Strength training, interval training, and nutritious diet
Overeating	Track calories to identify excess consumption
Inactivity	150 minutes of moderate activity per week
Poor Diet	Eat more lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains

Conclusion

If you're experiencing unexplained weight gain, these potential causes and solutions provide some direction on where to start. Be sure to rule out any medical conditions with your doctor as well. With consistent healthy lifestyle changes and possible medical treatment from providers like Restorative Health Center, you can get to the root of unexplained weight gain and achieve effective and sustainable weight management.