The six hidden causes of weight gain

Finding it difficult to lose weight? There could be underlying reasons preventing you from losing weight. I have helped many people lose weight successfully by addressing the underlying causes of weight gain and sluggish weight. 

In my practice, here are six of the top reasons why people struggle to lose weight on their own.

SIBO

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition where there is excessive bacteria present in the small intestine. 

This overgrowth can cause bloating, digestive issues, inflammation, and contribute to metabolic dysfunction. All of these factors can lead to weight gain. 

I offer SIBO testing - a simple breath test to diagnose if this is the reason you’re struggling to lose weight. Learn more about SIBO.

Food intolerances 

Do you notice weight gain, bloating or fluid retention after eating certain foods? If so, it could be a food intolerance preventing you from losing weight. 

Other symptoms associated with food intolerances include digestive problems, fatigue, eczema, mild depression, aches and pains. 

Some people are able to lose up to 3 kg just by avoiding the foods they are intolerant to. I can assess your symptoms and recommend the right tests to confirm food intolerances.

Hormonal imbalances 

Do you eat very little, have a small appetite but are still gaining or struggling with weight? Your thyroid hormones may be out of balance. 

Your thyroid regulates your metabolism, so it plays a key role in weight management. 

Do you feel bloated or gain weight before menstruation? Are you in your 40s or 50s and cannot lose weight no matter what you do? 

It could be the effects of menopause (for women) or andropause (for men). Rebalancing your hormones can help alleviate associated symptoms, and prevent unwanted weight gain.

Stress

Cortisol is a stress hormone released by the body to deal with stress. 

High levels of chronic stress can lead to high levels of cortisol in the body. One of the effects of elevated cortisol levels over a period of time is fat deposition in the abdominal (tummy) region. 

If you face chronic stress and notice your waistline expanding, elevated cortisol could be the culprit. 

Cortisol levels can be properly balanced and restored by natural medicine and stress management techniques.

Toxic overload 

In 2006, American scientists coined the term “obesogens” to denote a group of foreign chemical compounds that disrupt normal development and balance of lipid metabolism. Obesogens act by hijacking the regulatory systems that control body weight, which in some cases can lead to obesity. Learn more about obesogens and what you can do to reduce your exposure.

Emotional eating

Do you crave certain foods under stress or when you feel down? 

Maybe you feel you must have chocolate every evening. Perhaps you cannot put that bag of chips down until you finish it. Or you eat a lot when you are under stress or upset. 

If so, you may be struggling with emotional eating. Emotional eaters often feel powerless over their food cravings. 

I’m experienced in helping patients practise mindful eating, as well as regain control over both food and your feelings. I can also address pre-existing conditions like anxiety, depression or blood sugar imbalances.

What’s next?

To successfully lose weight, you need more than just the basics - a suitable diet and regular exercise - you need to ensure the underlying hidden causes are addressed. 

I use thorough assessment and testing to confirm what the cause of stubborn weight is, so you can feel healthy and confident.