It is very discouraging when you don't see a difference on the scale, especially when you are exercising often and eating well. Sometimes there is an underlying health issue that can either cause weight gain or keep weight on no matter what you do. Today we are going to talk about a few health issues that may be preventing you from losing weight.
Depression-
Many anti-depressants can cause weight gain, usually over a period of time. Depression itself can cause weight gain because you feel lonely and can often have low self-esteem. If it is your anti-depressants that you believe is causing weight gain, talk to your doctor about switching medication. Sometimes even working out with friends, or joining a community that will support you, will help feel less depressed and increase your self-esteem.
Slow Digestion-
Low gut function can cause weight gain because your digestion is not working properly. Ideally you should be having a bowel movement to clear out your digestion at least twice a day. The best way to keep your gut in proper working order, is by eating foods full of fiber, drinking lots of water, and either eating (fermented pickles, sauerkraut, or kefir) or taking probiotics to keep your gut flora healthy.
Vitamin Deficiencies-
Having low levels of magnesium, iron, or vitamin D can cause lower your immune system and alter your metabolism. When these two things are out of whack, you are more susceptible to getting sick and gaining weight. Boost your magnesium levels by eating foods full of magnesium (Brazil nuts, almonds, spinach, etc.) or by using a magnesium lotion on your feet. Vitamin D comes from the sun, so make sure you spend at least 20 minutes in the sun between the times of 10 and 2. Get a blood test if you suspect you have vitamin deficiency, especially an iron deficiency as it could lead to anemia.
Cushing's Syndrome-
Cushing’s syndrome occurs when your body has been exposed to excess cortisol for long periods of time and can cause high blood pressure, bone loss, a rounded face and mid-section, and sometimes diabetes. It is a very rare syndrome and can be diagnosed through a urinalysis and blood test. Limiting the amount of stress you are exposed to on a daily basis can reduce the amount of cortisol being released into your blood stream.
Reduced Thyroid Function-
Sometimes, sudden weight gain or difficulty losing weight, can be caused by low thyroid function. Your thyroid controls the release of hormones that helps regulate protein synthesis and metabolism. When your thyroid is off, a lot of things in your body can go haywire. The most common reasons why thyroid function goes done are stress, nutritional deficiencies, or genetics. Being under high amounts of stress for long periods of time, can lower thyroid function and it is very difficult to repair after a while. Fatigue, depression, anxiety, altered appetite, fuzzy brain, heart palpitations, digestive disruption, dry skin, menstrual irregularities, high blood pressure, chills or feeling cold, sore neck, thinning hair, gaining weight, and high cholesterol are symptoms of a thyroid malfunction. We will talk more about this topic in a later post.
Basically any type of hormone disruption or high levels of stress can cause weight gain or difficulty losing weight. It is important that you are staying as peaceful and calm as you can in order to avoid stress. Take a break when you find that you are getting stressed so much that you are having trouble sleeping, experiencing increased anxiety, or any of the other symptoms listed above.
Remember to breathe and eat well. Foods that are high in important vitamins will help your body maintain homeostasis. Find time to be calm and have fun. Laughing can boost your immune system and make you feel more relaxed. And don't forget to ask your doctor about any health problems you may suspect.
I hope you have a wonderful rest of your day! As always, let me know if you have any questions or would like me to write about a certain topic.
Until next time,
Amanda
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