Are there genetic reasons for not losing weight?

Author: Annabelle Jenkins  |  Last update: Thursday, December 11, 2025

Genetic predisposition Some individuals may experience obesity or an inability to lose weight or certain metabolic disorders which are in fact the result of hereditary or genetic factors rather than lifestyle choices.

What is the genetic disorder where you can't lose weight?

LEP gene mutations that cause congenital leptin deficiency lead to an absence of leptin. As a result, the signaling that triggers feelings of satiety does not occur, leading to the excessive hunger and weight gain associated with this disorder.

Why is my body not letting me lose weight?

Muscle helps keep up the rate at which you burn calories (metabolism). So as you lose weight, your metabolism declines, causing you to burn fewer calories than you did at your heavier weight. Your slower metabolism will slow your weight loss, even if you eat the same number of calories that helped you lose weight.

Can a genetically skinny person gain weight?

The good news is that it is definitely possible to become big and muscular, even if you have a naturally slender frame. While genetics do play a role in determining our body types, they don't have to be a limiting factor in achieving your fitness goals.

Is there a condition that makes it impossible to lose weight?

There are many medical reasons for not losing weight. For medical reasons, authors have examined large-effect factors such as hypothyroidism and underactive thyroid, polycystic ovarian syndrome, contraceptive use, medications, surgery and vitamin D deficiency.

REAL Reason You’re Not Losing Weight

What is the 30/30/30 rule for weight loss?

The 30/30/30 is a weight loss method that involves eating 30 g of protein within the first 30 minutes of your day and following it with 30 minutes of light exercise. This morning routine is rooted in sound science, and it could be a good way to increase your capacity to burn fat while keeping lean muscle.

Why am I gaining weight if I barely eat?

If you're asking yourself, “Why am I gaining weight when I barely eat,” several factors may be at play. Your body may be holding onto fat stores if your eating habits are inconsistent or restricted. Or, your weight gain may be the effect of a sedentary lifestyle, medical condition, or long-term stress.

Can genetics stop you from losing weight?

During the past few years, genetic research has made great strides in the identification of variants in human genome that affect body weight regulation; and emerging studies have shown evidence for interactions between genetic factors and dietary factors on obesity, weight loss, and maintenance.

Why do some people remain slim no matter what they eat?

Some people have a naturally low BMI due to physical characteristics that run in their family. A high metabolism. If a person has a high metabolism, they may not gain much weight even when eating high-energy foods. Frequent physical activity.

Why am I gaining weight despite working out?

So, as you start working out regularly and building strength, the new muscle you build may eventually weigh more than the fat you've burnt off. (Learn more about muscle weight vs. fat weight.) It often takes at least a month or two to add enough muscle to tip the scale, so don't be surprised if it happens.

What is blocking my weight loss?

Weight loss resistance is a complex issue that is influenced by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, chronic stress, poor sleep quality, medications, poor gut health, thyroid disorders, sex hormone fluctuations, and blood sugar imbalance with insulin or leptin resistance.

Why am I not losing weight but exercising and eating healthy?

You may not be maintaining a calorie deficit or you could be doing too much of one type of exercise. Reach out to a healthcare provider if you are feeling stuck and need help developing a more effective weight loss plan. They can help determine the reason for your plateau and help you get back on track.

Which body part loses fat first?

Mostly, losing weight is an internal process. You will first lose hard fat that surrounds your organs like liver, kidneys and then you will start to lose soft fat like waistline and thigh fat. The fat loss from around the organs makes you leaner and stronger.

What to eat for leptin resistance?

Nutrients and Food Groups to Incorporate With Leptin Resistance
  • Protein: Protein-rich foods include red meat, chicken, fish, eggs, lentils, quinoa, and nuts.
  • Fiber: Fiber-rich foods include leafy greens, chickpeas, lentils, beans, Brussels sprouts, and more.

What are the 5 primary signs of Prader Willi syndrome?

Symptoms of Prader-Willi syndrome
  • an excessive appetite and overeating, which can easily lead to dangerous weight gain.
  • restricted growth (children are much shorter than average)
  • floppiness caused by weak muscles (hypotonia)
  • learning difficulties.
  • lack of sexual development.

Does cortisol help with weight loss?

Cortisol significantly impacts weight management. When cortisol levels surge, they trigger physiological responses that promote weight gain. These include increased fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area, and a slowed metabolism, making it harder to shed excess pounds.

Why am I so skinny but I eat a lot?

You may become underweight for many different reasons. You may be born naturally small and your low BMI can be due to your genes. You may have a very high metabolism and find it hard to put on weight, even if you eat foods that have a lot of calories.

Why do some people find it impossible to lose weight?

Obesity and difficulties losing weight can be caused by many different factors—often due to genetics, imbalances in hormone levels, medications, and certain underlying diseases.

Why am I so heavy but not fat?

Lean muscle mass is more compact than fat. If you are muscular you can weigh quite a bit and not look fat. A person can be an ideal weight and have a lot of fat and look bulky. Another person can be overweight and have mostly muscle mass, and look lean and healthy.

How do you gain weight if you're genetically skinny?

In general, your plan may include:
  1. Eating more frequently. Slowly begin to eat 5 to 6 smaller meals during the day. ...
  2. Choosing food with lots of nutrients. ...
  3. Top it off. ...
  4. Try smoothies and shakes. ...
  5. But watch what and when you drink. ...
  6. Exercise.

How long does it take to lose 20 pounds?

To lose weight effectively and safely, aiming to lose 1 to 2 pounds (lbs) per week may be best. This means that losing 20 lbs may take 10 to 20 weeks. To lose weight, people will likely need to follow a healthy diet and get regular exercise. Some popular diets are effective initially but challenging to maintain.

Why am I gaining weight on 1500 calories a day?

Your body composition may be another reason why you are still gaining weight while in a calorie deficit. If you have a higher body fat percentage and lower muscle mass, then you are probably burning fewer calories than if you had more muscle mass.

How to flush out water weight?

  1. Exercise Regularly. Daily exercise provides several health benefits, including preventing water retention. ...
  2. Drink More Water. Drinking water to reduce water weight sounds counterintuitive, but it helps. ...
  3. Manage Salt Intake. ...
  4. Cut Carbs. ...
  5. Focus on Certain Foods and Herbs. ...
  6. Try Supplements. ...
  7. Up Your Caffeine Intake.

Previous article
Which is lighter 7NN or 8NN?
Next article
Why am I not dark after my spray tan?