I am 44, female. Is my obesity due to genetics or hormones?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 44-year-old woman who has struggled with weight for many years. Over the past five years, I have gained 80 pounds, even though I have tried many different diets and exercise programs that do not seem to work in the long term. I currently weigh 280 pounds and feel very tired even while doing simple activities like climbing stairs or playing with my children. I have developed high blood pressure and pre-diabetes, and my doctor says these are related to my weight.

I eat when I feel stressed or emotional, and I often feel hungry even after eating large meals. This makes me feel like I have no willpower or self-control. My mother and sister are also very overweight, and I am starting to wonder if there is a genetic or hormonal reason behind my weight issues, rather than just a lack of discipline. Could my obesity be caused by underlying metabolic or hormonal problems instead of only overeating? Is there a connection between my family history, emotional eating habits, and the health problems I am now facing?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I would like you to know that being overweight could be due to both genetic and hormonal reasons. Thyroid disorder, especially hypothyroidism, and the use of certain medicines like oral contraceptive pills or some antipsychotic medications could be contributing to weight gain in the body. This condition could also be inherited.

I do understand that the journey of weight loss, along with coping with stress and other related health conditions (called comorbidities), can be extremely challenging and sometimes overwhelming. Stress, anxiety, and the inability to lose weight could trigger the release of more stress hormones in the body, which may lead to binge eating.

Here are some simple ways to follow:

First of all, relax and take deep breaths. It is essential to understand exactly what is not working for you.
Get a full body profile done along with a thyroid function test (in a fasting state).
After any disorder has been ruled out, start by getting a diet chart from a certified clinician.
Diet will mostly be devoid of carbohydrates and fats and will be rich in fibre and proteins.
Exercise under supervision. Start with around one to two hours daily.
Play a sport you enjoy, which will also help you lose weight, like cycling, swimming, or playing badminton.
Be disciplined in your routine and practice mindful eating, which means observing each bite of your food and eating slowly.
Avoid talking while eating or watching television, as this could lead to eating extra portions of food.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.