Unexplained weight gain is a frustrating experience that many people face at some point in their lives. You may notice extra pounds creeping on despite eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. What gives? There are several potential causes of mysterious weight gain to consider: Hormonal changes: Shifts in hormones like cortisol, estrogen, testosterone, and thyroid hormones can lead to subtle metabolic changes that make weight loss more difficult. Hormone imbalances may be especially likely for women during perimenopause and menopause. Getting your hormone levels tested can identify any need for treatment. The experts at Harmony Hormone Care specialize in holistic hormone therapy to help patients achieve healthy hormonal balance. Medications: Many common prescription drugs like antidepressants, steroids, and seizure medications list weight gain as a side effect. Talk to your doctor about alternative meds if you notice unexplained weight gain after starting a new medication. Insufficient sleep: Not getting the recommended 7-9 hours per night can throw hunger hormones out of whack. Lack of sleep increases grehlin to boost appetite while lowering leptin to dull fullness signals. Aim to improve sleep quantity and quality to support weight goals. Stealth calories: Small bites, tastes, and sips from high calorie foods can add up quickly without realizing it. Pay close attention to condiments, cooking oils, alcohol servings, and sugary coffee drinks that sneak extra calories into your day. Keeping a food journal can uncover hidden calorie traps. Medical conditions: Less common medical conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), Cushing's disease, and hypothyroidism can drive weight gain as well. See your doctor if lifestyle changes don't seem to help - they can test for any underlying conditions. Don't despair if the numbers on the scale are inching up mysteriously. Try keeping a detailed food and symptom log, evaluating medications and supplements, improving sleep, managing stress, and consulting professionals like your doctor or registered dietitian. Expert help from the compassionate professionals at Harmony Hormone Care can provide personalized support to tackle unexplained weight gain at the root cause too. With some detective work and patient self-care, you can solve the case of the creeping pounds! Let me know if you have any other questions.