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Suggest Ways To Reduce Weight

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Posted on Mon, 4 Jan 2016
Question: I am currently struggling with my weight which is causing ongoing issues with my knees, legs and energy levels. I am currently weighing 320 pounds...I am 5'9. I do not exercise due to low energy levels and pain in knee. I have not always been this size...I gained this weight over a period of 3 years...a total of 100 pounds. I have a high craving for sugar and late night snacking. I have tried phentermine and other OTC weight loss supplements also B12 injections and supplements with no visible results. Any recommendations for someone who has a struggle with weight and energy?
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Answered by Dr. Shehzad Topiwala (6 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Weight

Detailed Answer:
Sorry to note your challenges with weight gain.

B12 injections and supplements have not been shown to have weight loss effects, although this practice is widely prevalent in USA.

When I see someone like you in my practice, I typically order the following tests in addition to a detailed physical examination:

CBC
Electrolytes
Calcium
HbA1c
Lipid profile
Liver function tests
Kidney function tests
TSH
Free T4
25 hydroxy Vitamin D
IGF1
Midnight Salivary Cortisol

The above tests look for possible causes of weight gain such as an under active thyroid. They also look for medical problems associated with excess body weight.

There are other uncommon conditions like Cushing's syndrome and Acromegaly that can cause weight gain too.
The two tests above ie IGF1 and Midnight Salivary Cortisol screen for these problems.

See if you can get to meet an endocrinologist to discuss weight related issues.

Seeing a dietitian to make an individualized diet plan is also helpful
Note: For more information on hormonal imbalance symptoms or unmanaged diabetes with other comorbid conditions, get back to us & Consult with an Endocrinologist. Click here to book an appointment.

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

Endocrinologist

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 1663 Questions

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Suggest Ways To Reduce Weight

Brief Answer: Weight Detailed Answer: Sorry to note your challenges with weight gain. B12 injections and supplements have not been shown to have weight loss effects, although this practice is widely prevalent in USA. When I see someone like you in my practice, I typically order the following tests in addition to a detailed physical examination: CBC Electrolytes Calcium HbA1c Lipid profile Liver function tests Kidney function tests TSH Free T4 25 hydroxy Vitamin D IGF1 Midnight Salivary Cortisol The above tests look for possible causes of weight gain such as an under active thyroid. They also look for medical problems associated with excess body weight. There are other uncommon conditions like Cushing's syndrome and Acromegaly that can cause weight gain too. The two tests above ie IGF1 and Midnight Salivary Cortisol screen for these problems. See if you can get to meet an endocrinologist to discuss weight related issues. Seeing a dietitian to make an individualized diet plan is also helpful