Overview
Are you losing weight without changing your diet, exercise routine, or lifestyle? While some may view weight loss as a good thing, unexplained or rapid weight loss can be a warning sign that your body is under stress—or that a medical issue is going undetected.
It's important to listen to your body. Sudden weight loss deserves attention, not celebration—especially when it wasn't intentional.
Why do people experience sudden weight loss?
Sudden weight loss happens when your body burns through calories or breaks down muscle without being asked to—often because of an underlying medical issue.
A common cause is uncontrolled blood sugar levels from insulin resistance or undiagnosed type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Your body may begin breaking down fat and muscle for energy, leading to weight loss, increased thirst, and fatigue.
Thyroid overactivity (hyperthyroidism) can also trigger rapid weight loss, as it speeds up metabolism and increases appetite. Other potential causes include digestive disorders, infections, stress-related hormone imbalances, or malabsorption from gut issues. In rare cases, certain cancers or autoimmune conditions may also present this way.
When should you talk to a doctor about sudden weight loss?
If you've lost more than 5% of your body weight within 3–6 months—without trying—it's time to speak with a provider. For example, that's about 8–10 pounds if you weigh 160–200 lbs.
Also consider getting help if you're experiencing:
- Increased hunger or thirst
- Fatigue or muscle weakness
- Changes in digestion or bowel movements
- Mood changes, shakiness, or difficulty focusing
- Sleep disruption or night sweats
Even if you feel "fine," unexplained weight loss is your body's way of saying something needs attention.
How Meto Can Help
At Meto, we help uncover why your body may be shedding weight unexpectedly. We begin with a full panel of lab tests to evaluate for causes like hyperthyroidism, undiagnosed diabetes, adrenal dysfunction, nutrient malabsorption, or other metabolic concerns.
If your results point to a condition like uncontrolled blood sugar or thyroid overactivity, your matched specialist will create a personalized care plan that may include medication, nutrition therapy, or referrals for digestive or endocrine support.
Even if your labs come back within range, Meto's clinical team can guide you through safe weight stabilization, nutrition rebalancing, and strength recovery through personalized strategies.
You can start with a virtual consultation to discuss what's changed, what you're experiencing, and how to begin rebuilding from the inside out.
