Weight loss resistance manifests in different patterns based on underlying metabolic dysfunction, each requiring specific assessment and targeted treatment approaches for optimal outcomes.
| Type | Primary Mechanisms | Common Patterns | Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metabolic Dysfunction | Insulin resistance, slow metabolism, thyroid dysfunction | Difficulty losing weight despite diet/exercise, central weight gain | Requires metabolic restoration and hormonal optimization |
| Dysregulated Nervous System | Hypervigilance and chronic stress send signals to the body to promote storage rather than energy utilization, | Cravings of “comfort foods” or not losing weight despite doing all the right things. Sometimes discipline or vigorous exercise causes weight gain instead of loss. | Focus on balancing the nervous system and creating “safety” so the metabolism can let go of storage mode |
| Gut Microbiome Imbalance | Dysbiosis affecting metabolism and appetite regulation | Cravings, inflammation, digestive issues with weight gain | Focus on microbiome restoration and gut healing |
| Hormonal Weight Gain | Thyroid, insulin, cortisol, or sex hormone imbalances | Weight gain during stress, menopause, or hormonal changes | Needs comprehensive hormonal evaluation and balancing |
| Inflammatory Weight Gain | Chronic inflammation affecting metabolism and fat storage | Food sensitivities, autoimmune conditions, persistent inflammation | Anti-inflammatory protocols and immune system balancing |
Comprehensive weight loss evaluation goes beyond BMI and calorie counting to identify the metabolic, hormonal, neurologic and gut health factors affecting your ability to lose weight sustainably. At Whole Gut Health, we use advanced diagnostics to create personalized weight loss protocols addressing root causes.
Testing options may include:
We customize testing protocols based on your weight loss history, health symptoms, and suspected underlying factors to ensure comprehensive evaluation and optimal treatment planning.
Our Three-Phase Metabolic Restoration Protocol Includes:
1. Assessment and Root-Cause Identification
2. Targeted Intervention
3. Long-Term Weight Maintenance and Metabolic Health
Dr. Alexandra Shustina, NYC’s and Miami’s premier gut health specialist doctor is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist. She is a gut health specialist with training in conventional gastroenterology and functional gut health. She is an expert in the gut microbiome and its role in health and wellness.
At Whole Gut Health, our care is led by experienced functional medicine clinicians with a deep understanding of the gut microbiome and advanced diagnostics. We combine evidence-based strategies from conventional gastroenterology with a functional and integrative lens to give you the clarity and support needed for long-term healing.
Sustainable weight loss goes far beyond calorie restriction to address the complex interplay of factors that regulate metabolism, appetite, and fat storage—including gut microbiome composition, hormonal balance, insulin sensitivity, inflammation levels, and nervous system function.
Metabolic Dysfunction
Dysregulated Nervous System
Gut Microbiome Imbalance
Hormonal Weight Gain
Inflammatory Weight Gain
Comprehensive evaluation includes multiple assessment approaches:
Testing protocols are customized based on weight loss history and suspected factors.
Our comprehensive three-phase metabolic restoration protocol includes:
Phase 1: Assessment and Root-Cause Identification
Phase 2: Targeted Metabolic Intervention
Phase 3: Long-Term Weight Maintenance and Metabolic Health
The gut microbiome directly influences metabolism through production of metabolites affecting insulin sensitivity, fat storage, and appetite regulation. Certain bacteria can extract more calories from food and promote fat storage, while beneficial bacteria enhance metabolism and reduce cravings. Additionally, gut bacteria help metabolize hormones and when imbalanced can create chronic inflammation that disrupts weight regulation.
Weight loss approaches that focus only on calorie restriction without addressing underlying metabolic dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and gut health typically result in yo-yo dieting and weight regain. Sustainable weight loss requires identifying and correcting the root causes that create weight gain and metabolic dysfunction for lasting results.
At Whole Gut Health, we focus on metabolic restoration rather than calorie restriction:
Dr. Alexandra Shustina is a board-certified gastroenterologist and internist who serves as NYC's and Miami's premier gut health specialist. She has training in both conventional gastroenterology and functional gut health, with expertise in the gut microbiome and its role in health and wellness.
The first step is scheduling a comprehensive consultation where we'll:
Contact our office to schedule your initial consultation and begin your journey toward sustainable weight loss through comprehensive metabolic restoration and gut health optimization.
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