Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything right, eating your veggies and going for walks, but the scale just won’t budge?
February 24, 2026
Contributed by: Maryanne Haddad, DO, FACP, DABOM / Internal Medicine, Obesity Medicine and Sleep Medicine
Why is Losing Weight So Hard? It Might Not Be Just You!
Have you ever felt like you’re doing everything right, eating your veggies and going for walks, but the scale just won’t budge? It can be super frustrating. You might start thinking, “Is it just me? Am I doing something wrong?”
The truth is, sometimes your body has a “hidden brake” on. Before you get too hard on yourself, it’s important to talk to your Primary Care Provider (PCP). They can check to see if there is a medical reason why your body is holding onto weight. They also help people manage their weight using medicine and healthy habits. Some are experts at helping patients get ready for, and recover from, weight loss surgery.
The Clues Your Doctor Looks For
When you visit your doctor, they act like a detective. They want to make sure your “engine” is running correctly. Here are some of the main things they usually check:
Your Thyroid
Your thyroid is a tiny, butterfly-shaped gland in your neck. Think of it as your body’s battery. If it’s “hypoactive” (low), your metabolism (the way your body burns energy) slows down to a crawl. This can make you gain weight even if you aren’t eating more than usual.
Body Chemistry
Sometimes, your body chemistry can have issues that cause you to gain weight. This includes checking for fatty liver disease and low levels of vitamins.
Sneaky Medications
Sometimes, the medicine you take to stay healthy can have a side effect of weight gain. Common ones include:
- Some medicines for mood or depression.
- Steroids used for allergies or asthma.
- Certain blood pressure pills.
Never stop taking your medicine without talking to your doctor first. They can often find a different version that doesn’t affect your weight.
What Happens at the Appointment?
Don’t worry, checking for these things is usually very simple!
Your doctor will likely:
- Ask Questions: They’ll want to know if you feel tired, cold, or stressed.
- Order Blood Work: A simple blood test can tell the doctor exactly how your thyroid and hormones are doing.
- Review Your Meds: They will look at every pill you take to see if one is “sabotaging” your hard work.
You Are Not Alone
If a medical issue is found, it’s actually good news! It means there is a treatment that can help get your body back on track. Once that “hidden brake” is fixed, your healthy habits will finally start showing results.
“Losing weight isn’t always as simple as ‘trying harder.’ Sometimes, there is a medical reason why your body is stuck. My goal is to find those hidden problems and help you fix them so that your healthy choices can actually work.” — Dr. Haddad
Is it time to schedule a visit with your primary care provider?
Having a relationship with a primary care provider is the best way to stay healthy and start your weight management journey.
To schedule an appointment with your primary care provider, call 216-My-Metro or schedule online.
Your Questions Answered
Q. Why is losing weight so hard?
A. Losing weight can feel tough, even when you eat healthy and stay active. Sometimes your body has a “hidden brake” that slows things down. This can happen because of your thyroid, your body chemistry, or even medicines you take. Your primary care provider can help find out what’s going on.
Q. What medical problems can make weight loss harder?
A few health issues can cause your body to hold onto weight. Your doctor may check for:
- Thyroid problems: A low‑working thyroid can slow your metabolism.
- Body chemistry issues: Things like fatty liver disease or low vitamins.
- Medicines: Some medicines for mood, allergies, asthma, or blood pressure can cause weight gain.
Your doctor can help find safer options if a medicine is affecting your weight.
Q: What will happen at my doctor’s visit?
Your appointment is simple. Your doctor will:
- Ask you questions about your energy, mood, and symptoms
- Do a blood test to check your thyroid, vitamins, and hormones
- Look at all your medicines to see if any might cause weight gain
These steps help your doctor understand why weight loss is hard and how to help.
