Because concerns around weight are common in my practice, I often speak with women who feel frustrated by changes in their body that seem resistant to diet and exercise alone.
Many describe experiences such as gaining weight easily despite careful eating, difficulty losing weight despite regular physical activity, or noticing new changes around the midsection that were not present earlier in life. These experiences can feel discouraging, especially when efforts to support health do not produce the expected results.
In my experience, changes in weight—particularly when they feel “stubborn”—are rarely caused by a single factor. Instead, they often reflect a combination of influences that may include nutrition, stress, sleep, digestion, and hormonal balance.
Food sensitivities and digestion
Some individuals may react to certain foods without being immediately aware of it. These reactions can be delayed and may contribute to symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, joint discomfort, or changes in weight. Exploring how different foods affect your body—either through observation, guided elimination approaches, or practitioner-supported testing—can sometimes provide helpful insight.
Hormonal balance
Hormones play a role in metabolism, energy regulation, and body composition. Imbalances related to estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones, or stress hormones may influence how the body stores or releases weight. These patterns can be particularly noticeable during periods of hormonal transition, such as perimenopause or menopause.
Stress and the body’s response
Chronic stress can affect appetite, energy levels, and metabolic processes. When the body remains in a prolonged stress response, it may prioritize conservation over change. Supporting stress regulation through lifestyle adjustments, restorative movement, and adequate rest can be an important part of overall wellbeing.
Other contributing factors
In some cases, additional elements such as nutrient status, gut health, blood sugar regulation, or environmental exposures may also play a role. Because each person’s situation is unique, identifying contributing factors often involves a broader, individualized perspective.
When approaching weight-related concerns, it can be helpful to focus on supporting the body rather than forcing change. Nourishing food choices, movement that feels restorative rather than exhausting, and attention to stress management may support balance over time.
For individuals who continue to feel stuck despite making supportive lifestyle changes, working with a qualified healthcare practitioner may help explore potential contributing factors more deeply and guide next steps in a personalized way.