Why Is Losing Weight So Hard for Some People—Even When They Try Everything?

-By Dr. Nirupam Sinha, Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeon, India 

"Mote log bas khaate hi rehte hain," how many times have we heard this in everyday conversations? In India, weight is often viewed through a lens of judgment, misunderstanding, and cultural myths. As a bariatric surgeon, I meet diverse individuals who feel trapped in their bodies, whether they are trying to lose extra weight or gain some healthy pounds but failing despite their best efforts. 

Let’s explore the science and demolish some misconceptions. 

1) Genetics and Body Type 

Some people are genetically more likely to gain weight. They may have a slower metabolism or their bodies may store fat efficiently. These individuals can gain weight even on a moderate diet. 

On the flip side, “kitna patla hai, kuch khaata nahi kya?” Thin people might eat a lot, but their fast metabolism or low fat-storage capacity makes it tough to gain weight. 

This isn’t about laziness or luck; it’s biology. 

2) Metabolism: The Hidden Engine 

Every person has a different basal metabolic rate (BMR). Those with a slower BMR burn fewer calories at rest, making weight gain easier. Hormonal issues like hypothyroidism, PCOS, or insulin resistance, which are common among Indian women today due to sedentary lifestyles and high-carb diets, can also slow metabolism significantly. 

Sadly, many people overlook these signs until weight becomes a serious health issue. 

3) Hormonal Imbalance and Appetite 

Two main hormones control hunger: 

• Ghrelin – the ‘hunger hormone’ 

• Leptin – the ‘fullness hormone’ 

In overweight individuals, leptin resistance is common, meaning the brain doesn’t receive the signal to stop eating. 

At the same time, ghrelin remains high, which increases cravings. This leads to overeating without feeling satisfied. 

As the old Indian saying goes, “Pet bhar gaya, par mann nahi bhara,” and that’s true for many cases. 

4) Lifestyle and Sleep Habits 

Urban India is undergoing a silent crisis of lifestyle. Long sitting hours, late-night screen exposure, tension, and low physical activity cause weight gain.

Poor sleep even initiates the hunger hormone and inhibits the fullness hormone.

Conversely, individuals who remain physically active, sleep soundly, and keep tension at bay tend to have healthier weight control—apart from food habits.

5) Emotional and Cultural Eating 

We Indians celebrate everything on the plate—"Kuch meetha ho jaaye" is not just a saying, it's a ritual. Emotional hunger, overeating during celebrations, and emotional attachment to food can sneakily lead to weight gain.

Individuals dealing with issues of self-esteem or stress are more likely to engage in mindless eating, particularly late in the night or alone.

6) Childhood Conditioning 

Children raised in homes where food is used as a reward or punishment often develop unhealthy relationships with food as adults. 

Additionally, the myth “Mote bachche healthy hote hain” normalizes early obesity. 

Conclusion by Dr. Nirupam Sinha 

As a bariatric surgeon, I speak from the heart: weight is not just about calories; it involves context. It’s about your hormones, emotions, metabolism, upbringing, and more. Instead of body-shaming or weight-gain oversimplification we must offer science, support, and sensitivity. Whether you're having trouble losing or gaining weight, your path is legitimate—and help is always present.

Dr. Nirupam Sinha 

Bariatric & Metabolic Surgeon, India  

“Transforming lives beyond the scale—toward sustainable wellness" 

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