Why can't some people lose weight? Exploring medical, genetic & lifestyle factors

July 25, 2023

Losing weight is a common goal for many people, but it’s not always as simple as just eating well and exercising daily. Despite putting in the effort, some people still struggle to shed those stubborn pounds. So, why does this happen? In this blog, we’ll explore some of the reasons why some people just can’t seem to lose weight.

Medical conditions that conditions that can interfere with weight loss efforts

Sometimes, the inability to lose weight despite a healthy diet and regular exercise can be due to an underlying medical condition. For example, an under-active thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) can slow down your metabolism, making it harder to burn calories. Other conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also affect weight loss efforts. If you suspect you have an underlying medical condition that may be affecting your weight, it’s important to speak to your healthcare provider.

Genetics & it's influence on weight gain

Some people are more predisposed to carrying extra weight due to their genetics. Research has identified several genes that may contribute to obesity, including genes that control appetite, metabolism, and the storage of fat.

However, while genetics can play a role in weight gain, it’s not the only factor. Lifestyle choices such as diet and exercise still play a significant role. When all else is in alignment for weight loss and results aren’t forthcoming, this can be a situation where medication like Ozempic and others can be of use.

Whilst there can be some side effects and stigma, the benefits of losing 10-20% of your body weight will generally far outweigh the downsides.

Hormonal imbalances & their impact on weight loss

Hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism and weight, so imbalances can affect weight loss efforts. For example, high levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) can lead to weight gain, particularly around the midsection.

Hormonal imbalances can be caused by a range of factors, including stress, sleep deprivation, and certain medications. Working with a doctor can be a great way to get to the bottom of a myriad of factors that can block weight loss and ensure that all factors are being considered.

This level of knowledge (especially around hormones and the effects of medication) is something that’s beyond the scope of most fitness and nutrition consultants.

Medications that can affect your ability to lose weight

Speaking of medications, certain prescription drugs can interfere with weight loss efforts. For example, antidepressants, antipsychotics, birth control and corticosteroids can all cause weight gain. If you’re taking medication and struggling to lose weight, our doctors can help you by troubleshooting any potential issues.

Overeating & emotional eating habits

While eating well is important for weight loss, it’s also important to pay attention to portion sizes. Eating too much, even if it’s healthy food, can still result in weight gain. Some people may also have a tendency to overeat due to emotional reasons, such as stress or boredom.

Addressing the underlying causes of overeating can help with weight loss efforts. It’s a well-known fact that to lose weight you must burn more energy than you consume. To say this is the be-all and end-all is very misguided though. For people who consistently take in more energy than they consume, some help in coming up with a strategy for rebalancing this is the first place to start.

Failure to do so will condemn the person to higher than healthy body mass and potential health complications as a result. There’s also myriad of other reasons why people might over eat. From neurotransmitter imbalances, to child hood trauma, to environmental factors, the list goes on. These are the things that make the ‘just eat less and move more’ approach unrealistic for many, and further highlights the utility of modern day medical approaches. 

The importance of consistency in exercise for weight loss

Exercise is an important component of weight loss, but it’s important to maintain a consistent routine. If you’re only exercising sporadically or not pushing yourself enough during your workouts, you may not see the results you’re hoping for.

Additionally, certain types of exercise may be more effective for weight loss than others, so it’s worth speaking to a personal trainer or fitness professional to develop an effective exercise routine.

We see a bright future in an integrative strategy where the modern medical approach is integrated with a consistent and intelligent approach to fitness, giving the patient every chance of success. 

In conclusion

Weight loss is a complex process that can be influenced by a range of factors. If you’re struggling to lose weight despite eating well and exercising regularly, it’s worth exploring some of the underlying reasons why. By addressing these factors and making small, sustainable changes to your lifestyle, you can improve your chances of achieving your weight loss goals.

Consulting with a doctor who specialises in this field will mean that you can most likely get to the bottom of what the issue actually is, then chart a path forward so that you can benefit from the positive health benefits that losing weight will do for you.

This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any major changes to your health or fitness routine.