Weight gain that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise often has a medical cause. Hormone changes in perimenopause and menopause, low testosterone, thyroid function, blood sugar regulation, medications, and sleep can all make weight harder to manage. At Turner Medical Arts in Santa Barbara, we start with a medical evaluation and laboratory testing to understand what is driving your weight gain, then build a treatment plan around the cause.
What Causes Weight Gain?
Weight gain usually has more than one contributor. Common medical factors include:
- Hormone changes during perimenopause and menopause, which often shift weight toward the abdomen
- Low testosterone in men
- Thyroid function
- Insulin resistance and blood sugar regulation
- Certain prescription medications
- Poor sleep, stress, and changes in activity with age
How We Evaluate Weight Gain
Your visit begins with a review of your health history, medications, previous weight loss attempts, and goals. Comprehensive laboratory testing looks at metabolic health, glucose regulation, thyroid function, hormone levels, and nutritional status. These results help us recommend treatment that fits the cause, not a one-size-fits-all program.
Treatment Options
- Medical Weight Management – Physician-supervised weight loss with individualized prescription medication, such as GLP-1 therapy with tirzepatide or semaglutide, when clinically appropriate, plus monthly follow-up.
- Menopause & Midlife Women’s Health Care – Care for the hormonal changes of perimenopause and menopause that can affect weight, sleep, and energy.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy – Treatment for hormone imbalance when testing and symptoms support it.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy for Men – For men whose weight gain comes with low testosterone.
- Peptide Therapy – May be added to support body composition and lean muscle when clinically appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why am I gaining weight even though I eat well and exercise?
Hormone changes, thyroid function, insulin resistance, medications, and sleep can all cause weight gain that diet and exercise alone don’t correct. A medical evaluation with laboratory testing can identify these factors.
Can menopause cause weight gain?
Yes. Hormone changes during perimenopause and menopause are commonly linked with weight gain, especially around the abdomen, along with changes in sleep and energy. Treatment may include hormone therapy, medical weight management, or both.
Can low testosterone cause weight gain?
Low testosterone is associated with increased body fat and reduced muscle mass in men. Blood testing can confirm whether low testosterone is part of the picture.
Do you offer GLP-1 medications for weight loss?
Yes. Our Medical Weight Management program may include tirzepatide, semaglutide, or oral options when clinically appropriate, with monthly medical follow-up.
Weight Gain Treatment in Santa Barbara
If unexplained weight gain is affecting your health or confidence, our medical team can help you understand why and what to do about it. Call (805) 962-1957 or request an appointment online. In-person in Santa Barbara; telehealth available.
