Although most people realize that weight gain is a common problem with age, what many don't realize is that sometimes weight gain isn't connected to age as much as illness. In fact, there are many different health conditions that can also contribute to weight gain issues. Understanding the cause of your weight gain and the difficulties shedding those pounds can help you to seek the right medical support. Here's a look at some of the things that you should know about problematic weight gain and the struggles you may face trying to shed that weight.
What Illnesses Cause Weight Gain?
There are many different illnesses that can lead to weight gain. Sometimes it's the treatment for an illness that leads to weight gain. For example, there are certain insulin products used for diabetes management that can cause persistent weight problems, including not only weight gain, but difficulty losing weight as well.
Thyroid problems, which can often develop in adulthood, can also cause problems with weight gain and stubborn weight that you can't seem to lose. Think about your medical history and any recent diagnosis that may be contributing to your problems with losing weight.
How Can You Combat Sluggish Weight Loss?
Once you've identified the illness that may be contributing to your weight issues, you need to talk with a doctor about how to combat the problems. Sometimes, properly treating the illness, such as balancing your thyroid hormone with medication, will be enough to allow you to start shedding excess weight.
In other cases, you may be referred to a nutritionist for a thorough assessment of your dietary choices and behaviors. Sometimes, a nutritionist's guidance is enough for you to make the necessary changes to restart your metabolism and shed the stubborn weight.
What Other Options Are There?
If you find that treating the illness and working with a nutritionist doesn't seem to be enough for you to lose weight, your doctor may recommend that you receive medical intervention to help. This may mean medication to help suppress your appetite, or it could mean surgery to place a lap band or something similar.
Weight loss can be a real challenge at any stage of life, but especially so when you're in your adult years and combating any kind of illness. If you're struggling with stubborn weight, you should talk with your doctor about the options available to you for weight loss. The more proactive you are, the better your chances will be of finally seeing some of that persistent weight come down.
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