7 Medical Reasons For Slow Metabolism & Weight Gain!

Do you feel that you are still gaining weight no matter how much you diet or exercise? If yes, then you could have a slow metabolism; and there are a few medical reasons for slow metabolism which are related to weight gain that you must know about.

You are on a strict diet, you make it a point to get some exercise on a daily basis and yet, your weight remains constant or even worse, you keep gaining weight!

It can all be quite frustrating, right? Well, the key to healthy weight loss is to boost your metabolism level, as a faster metabolic rate can help burn calories quicker!

Metabolism is a process in which the body converts the calories into energy, in order to use the energy for various other functions.

So, if you have a slower metabolic rate, then your body takes a longer time to convert the calories into energy, allowing the cells more time to absorb fat!

So, a slow metabolism can not only make you gain weight, but it can also lower your energy levels drastically.

Here is a list of medical reasons for a slow metabolism that you should make yourself aware of, have a look!

1. Excess Cortisol

One of the causes for a slow metabolic rate is the excess production of the stress hormone called cortisol in the body, causing weight gain and its related disorders.

2. High Insulin Levels

When the body's insulin levels are high, the blood cannot absorb enough glucose, causing a spike in the blood sugar levels. When the blood sugar levels are high, your metabolic rate automatically slows down.

3. Thyroid Disorder

If your thyroid hormones are produced in excess or produced in inadequate quantities, it can also cause a slow metabolism and weight gain.

4. Low Oestrogen Levels

Low levels of oestrogen, the female reproductive hormone, can also lead to a slow metabolism, which is why many post-menopausal women experience fatigue and weight gain.

5. Low Testosterone Levels

You may have noticed that there is a gradual decline in muscle mass and increase in fat mass, in older men, this is caused by slow metabolism due to lowered testosterone levels.

6. Inadequate Muscle Tissues

When a person has more fat tissues in his/her body, in comparison to the muscle tissues, it can also lead to a slow metabolism.

7. Medications

Reports have shown that use of certain medications like steroids, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-depressants, etc., can also slow down the metabolic rate.