Article # 126. Why you are not loosing weight. Topic 1

Some of the reasons for not losing weight

If you are trying to lose weight and are unable to, it could be more than just eating the wrong foods or not exercising long enough. There are some medical conditions that can halt your weight loss. Identifying what may be the culprit should involve a visit to your family doctor. He will be able to rule out medical conditions or adjust your medications accordingly -- if that is stalling your weight loss.

Significance

Losing weight is beneficial to your health and can help prevent many diseases. This includes conditions such as type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, liver disease, hypertension, certain types of cancer and high blood cholesterol. Losing weight can be challenging for many people, and when it doesn't come off as fast as you would expect, you may feel like giving up. If your weight loss is halted because of a medical condition, getting proper treatment should help your weight loss progress, and your health will improve.

Medical Problems

In order to effectively lose weight, all of your organs must work in unison to break down fat cells and burn calories. One of the most problematic conditions that can prevent weight loss is hypothyroidism or an underactive thyroid. The thyroid is an organ that is located in the front of the neck. Its main function is to control the metabolism of the body. If it is under functioning, it may stall weight loss and also bring about other uncomfortable symptoms such as depression and fatigue. Other medical problems that could stall weight loss include hormonal disorders, polycystic ovarian disease, diabetes, idiopathic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, sleep apnea and bulimia.

Medications

You need to consider that some types of medications you may be taking could also halt your weight loss. Family Doctor reports that some medications used to treat high blood pressure, allergies, diabetes, epilepsy and manic depression can cause you to not lose weight effectively and, in some cases, gain weight. Ask your doctor about adjusting your dosage so you can be successful with your weight loss plan.

Water Retention

If you are following your weight loss program accurately, you may notice the scales are not going down, or they are going up. One reason for this could be medications you are taking are causing you to retain water. Actually drinking more water will assure that you are getting enough fluids. Having enough fluid intake -- at least eight 8 oz. glasses per day -- will help boost your metabolism and prevent water retention.

Lose Weight

Once you find out what is causing your weight gain or stalled weight loss, you should start to lose weight steadily. Keep in mind you should only try to lose between 1and 2 lbs. per week, this promotes a healthy and gradual weight loss. Set realistic goals for yourself, even if you are faced with a condition that may slow down your weight loss. A healthy lifestyle rather than a diet will help you learn how to lose weight effectively and keep it off.