Resistance to weight loss may occur as the result of a chronic condition, such as hypothyroidism and Cushing's syndrome. Difficulty losing weight may also occur due to lifestyle factors such as chronic stress. In addition, periods of weight loss are often followed by weight loss plateaus even when you follow an effective diet and exercise regimen.
Hypothyroidism
When the thyroid ceases to produce adequate amounts of certain hormones, hypothyroidism occurs. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, depression, brittle hair and nails, muscle weakness and weight gain. Hypothyroidism progressively slows the metabolism over time, slowly causing unexplained weight gain and making weight loss extremely difficult. Treating hypothyroidism with thyroid medications helps regulate metabolism and can reduce resistance to weight loss.
Cushing Syndrome
Cushing's syndrome may cause resistance to weight loss and occurs as the result of highly elevated cortisol levels in the body. This may occur because of a pituitary or adrenal tumor or after using certain medications, such as prednisone. Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome include upper body obesity, a round, red and full face, acne or other skin infections, half-inch or larger purple marks on the abdomen and thighs, easy bruising, backaches, depression, anxiety, fatigue, high blood pressure, headaches and increased thirst. The treatment for Cushing's syndrome depends on the cause, ranging from simply changing medications to surgery to remove cortisol excreting tumors.
Chronic Stress
Chronic stress may cause resistance to weight loss for multiple reasons. Chronic stress causes the body to produce more cortisol, which may lead to weight gain, particularly in the midsection. In addition, some people have difficulties making mindful or healthy food choices when stressed, leading to stress eating. For people with weight loss resistance due to chronic stress, regular physical activity, breathing techniques and reducing obligations may help reduce stress as well as weight loss resistance.
Weight Loss Plateau
After seeing steady weight loss, many people experience a weight loss plateau. Weight loss may stall after steady weight loss because your metabolism slows down as your body mass shrinks. Lean muscle as well as fat may be lost during weight loss, which causes the metabolism to slow. Continuing to follow the same healthy diet and exercise regimen will maintain weight loss but will not help break through a plateau. Instead, restarting weight loss requires increasing physical activity -- particularly muscle-building exercises such as weightlifting -- decreasing caloric intake, or both.
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