What Causes Weight Gain Despite Exercising?

Posted on Sat, 19 Sep 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 19 Sep 2015 Answered on

Mon, 12 Oct 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi Doctor
I cycle 38 kms everyday and followed strict diet too. My thyroid is also normal as I take 25mcg thyronorm and check my thyroid profile every six months.
After all this..i am still gaining weight. I have no clue what to do.
I in fact tried extreme duty of just eating one meal s day and supplementing others with just fruits and vegies. Still I was gaining weight..
I am gaining weight slowly though.. But it should be the other way right after I do so much of exercise..?

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Please provide basic info.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

I understand your concern.

Please specify your age, gender, height and current weight?

I can guide you better once you update me with these results.

Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Suresh Heijebu (1 hour later)

My age is 36.
Height 5.8
Weight- 87
Male

Answered by Dr. Suresh Heijebu (23 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Antiobesity medications can be considered.

Detailed Answer:
Hello, Sir.

I understand your concern.

I apologise for the delayed response.

You BMI is 29.4 which indicates you are overweight as per WHO standards.

Since you have not lost weight despite intense exercise therapy and dietary restriction, you can be considered for antiobesity medication.

Thyroid dysfunction(in spite of normal levels currently) is the major cause of excess weight gain in your case.

Likewise, lipid abnormalities are commonly associated hypothyroidism.

For this, I advise you get a fasting lipid profile.

I generally recommend my patients oral tablets of Orlistat for 3 months.This drug is effective as an adjunct to caloric restriction, increased physical activity, and behavioural modification.Hence continue the exercise and dietary restriction.Please check with your physician if he shares my view and if can prescribe them to you.

This drug can be taken while taking levothyroxine.

Please update me test results.

Post your further queries if any.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj