Many people come to us with the same concern: “I feel like I can’t lose weight—what’s wrong?” While we wish there were a simple fix, the reality is more complex. This article explores the reasons behind weight loss resistance and how to overcome it.

Have you tried crash diets only to see no results? Are you exercising regularly but the scale won’t budge? Do you wonder if you’re just meant to be overweight? If this sounds familiar, you may be experiencing weight loss resistance.

With 65% of the population classified as overweight, the health implications are serious—ranging from heart disease and diabetes to certain cancers. Poor nutrition and yo-yo dieting are often at the root of these issues.

One major reason diets fail is that people often treat them as temporary fixes. They return to unhealthy habits once the diet ends, undoing any progress. Others seek quick solutions like pills, avoiding the long-term commitment needed for real change.

I often tell patients: if it took years to gain the weight, it will take time to lose it properly. Many also overlook deeper issues like metabolic damage from repeated dieting, or psychological and behavioral factors that sabotage progress.

To achieve lasting results, you must adopt the habits of someone who is already lean. Weight loss resistance is more than just a calorie issue—it’s a complex condition with many contributing factors.

In fact, 95% of people who lose weight on a diet regain it within five years. That’s because true weight loss resistance involves more than willpower. It can stem from chronic stress, poor sleep, neurotransmitter imbalances, food sensitivities, digestive issues, insulin and leptin resistance, thyroid dysfunction, toxic overload, and hormonal imbalances.

Conditions like diabetes can also hinder fat metabolism and muscle gain. Many of these issues are fueled by our fast-paced, high-stress lifestyles. But there is hope.

In my practice, we take a holistic approach. The first visit includes a full health assessment, body measurements, diet history, and a three-day food log. Based on this, we identify potential resistance factors and order lab tests to confirm them.

Each patient receives a personalized plan. Lab work may include traditional or functional testing, which examines how your metabolism operates at each stage.

Functional lab testing is key to uncovering the root causes of weight loss resistance. Everyone’s metabolism and stress profile is different, so treatment must be tailored.

Depending on the findings, treatment may involve targeted supplements, customized exercise plans, stress and sleep management, detox strategies, and psychological support.

If you feel like you can’t lose weight, remember: your situation is unique. With the right assessment and strategy, lasting change is possible.