Many of us wonder, “Why am I losing weight?” We have many possible reasons, ranging from stress to severe illness. Often, unexpected weight loss is a symptom of an underlying medical problem. Some common causes of unexplained weight loss are hectic schedules, intense exercise, and not enough food. In some cases, the sudden loss of 10 pounds or more is a cause for concern.
If you take a look around, there are a lot of people that seem to be losing weight naturally without even trying. But did you know that losing weight accidentally is not the same thing as intentionally losing weight? And unintentional weight loss doesn’t always mean that your efforts aren’t working anymore or that you’re losing muscle mass; it could be totally unrelated to how you are exercising, eating and living. So if you are finding yourself losing weight without changing your diet or exercise routine, it’s worth talking to your doctor to see if anything is out of the ordinary.
Unexpected weight loss can be a sign of an underlying medical condition
A number of underlying conditions may cause sudden, unexpected weight loss. For example, depression can affect parts of the brain that control appetite, causing a person to lose weight without actually eating less. A physician may recommend behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, or antidepressants to treat depression. An unexpected weight loss can also be caused by a bowel disorder known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This condition disrupts hormones such as leptin and ghrelin, which are responsible for controlling appetite.
While unexpected weight loss can be a welcomed change, it should always be investigated by your healthcare provider. While most people are aware of the detrimental effects of excessive weight, unexplained weight loss can indicate a medical problem. Many of the underlying conditions that can cause sudden, unexplained weight loss are common, including cancer and thyroid issues. In addition, if you experience other symptoms with this condition, it is important to schedule an appointment with a medical professional to ensure that you don’t have a serious condition.
Stress
If you are losing weight without trying, it may be a symptom of a chronic condition called Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), a disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and gas.
Fortunately, many of the symptoms of IBS are treatable with a change in diet and lifestyle. Stress affects the production of stress hormones, which may contribute to weight loss.
If you experience high levels of stress, your body responds by releasing a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol is a stress hormone that the body produces in times of danger. Although it is a natural reaction, chronic levels of cortisol can increase your risk of gaining weight and preventing you from losing it. It can also increase your appetite and decrease your sensitivity to insulin.
Type 1 diabetes
If you have type 1 diabetes, you may have been told that your body will produce sugar even when you’re not eating. If this is the case, you must start taking insulin immediately, and this may not be possible for some people. You will still need insulin as your body ages, and your targets will change as you get older. In addition, a patient with type 1 diabetes should get regular vaccinations to prevent complications. Fortunately, this condition is not life-threatening.
A regular exercise program will help you control your blood sugar levels, and it will also help burn extra fat and calories. Make sure to check your blood sugar levels with a doctor before starting an exercise program, though. People with type 1 diabetes must take special precautions before physical activity, and you should make sure to check your blood sugar levels before starting a new exercise program. You should also check your eyesight, cholesterol, and dentist regularly to ensure that they’re in good condition. And remember to check your feet on a daily basis, as they’re very sensitive and may have sores.
None of these conditions will bring you long term weight loss success. In fact, you are putting your health and even your life at risk by ignoring the symptoms. If you are experiencing unusually rapid weight loss that is not intentional, it is important to have a physician inspect your body for any physical abnormalities or diseases. Many times rapid weight loss is caused by something benign, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
