Is My Recent Weight Loss Cause for Concern?
(Age 18, Height 5'2", currently on beta blockers and antihistamines, diagnosed with POTS and hEDS, primarily housebound but engage in daily physiotherapy) Since May, my weight has decreased from 57 kilograms to 53 kilograms by July. To provide some context, I initially aimed to shed a little weight after experiencing a gain attributed to the birth control pill, which I had stopped taking in February due to my absence of menstrual periods. However, after reaching 57 kilograms in April, I essentially ceased my weight loss efforts. Thus, I would classify this recent weight drop as unintentional. My medical professionals have warned me not to lose more than 4 kilograms as my braces are calibrated for a specific weight, adding to my concern. Normally, I monitor my caloric intake closely due to gastrointestinal challenges and my inability to sense hunger accurately. Over the past month, I’ve slacked off in tracking my calories because of an increased workload, but for several years, I have targeted around 1300 calories daily, plus calories from various activities—be it taking a shower, moving around the house, or completing my physiotherapy exercises. While I was gaining weight while on the pill with this calorie allowance, I reached my ideal weight in April without needing to adhere to a strict diet after discontinuing it. In recent months, I believe I've been consuming enough calories—if not slightly more—especially as my appetite has improved. There were a couple of weeks where I managed to eat only about 800 calories a day, but that was a month ago, and I find myself continuing to lose weight even now. Given all of my weight changes, I've never dropped to 53 kilograms since my early teenage years. Should I be concerned about this trend?
Answers (1)
7/19/2025, 9:30:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about unintentional weight loss, especially given the context of your health conditions and treatment. Based on your description, the weight loss from 57 kg to 53 kg over a short period, particularly without a clear intention, warrants attention, especially since you've been advised to maintain your weight for the sake of your braces.
Explanation
Unintentional weight loss can arise from several factors, including dietary changes, stress, medication side effects, and underlying health issues. In your case, with conditions like POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and hEDS (hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome), fluctuations in weight may be influenced by gastrointestinal issues and how your body manages energy.
It's also important to note the complications associated with your current weight trends. Since your medical team has indicated a specific weight is necessary for your braces, maintaining stability in your weight may directly impact your comfort and health.
Next Steps
Here’s a prioritized list of actions to help you address your weight loss concerns:
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Caloric Intake Monitoring: Return to closely monitoring your caloric intake. Aim for at least 1300 calories daily, adjusting if needed based on your activity level. Consider using an app or food diary to track what you're eating and ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs.
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Nutrient-Dense Foods: Focus on incorporating calorically dense but nutritious foods into your diet. This could include healthy fats (like avocados, nuts, and seeds), whole grains, protein sources (like lean meats, eggs, and legumes), and smoothies that can be easier to consume.
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Hydration: Ensure you drink enough fluids, as hydration can significantly impact your energy levels and appetite. Electrolyte drinks may also help, especially given your condition.
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Evaluate Symptoms: Keep an eye out for other symptoms that may indicate a concern, including fatigue, changes in patterns of bowel movements, or signs of malnutrition (like hair loss or changes in skin health). Log these to share with your healthcare team.
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Consult with a Dietitian: Even though I cannot recommend consultations, consider the value of discussing your dietary habits with a nutritionist familiar with POTS and hEDS. They can provide you with tailored dietary advice.
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Regular Check-ins: Set weekly or biweekly check-ins with yourself to assess your weight and overall energy levels. This can help you identify any new trends early on.
If you notice that your weight continues to drop or if you experience concerning symptoms (like fainting, extreme fatigue, or worsening gastrointestinal issues), it's crucial to reach out to your healthcare provider for more targeted support. You’re taking great steps to monitor your health, and being proactive is important.
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