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How Your Body Type Affects Weight Gain

Your body type is determined largely by genetics, over which we have no control. William Sheldon, M.D., first developed the concept that everyone is born with a certain body type. Dr. Sheldon outlined three basic body types: ectomorph, mesomorph, and endomorph.

• Ectomorph is the type that fashion magazines would have us aspire to: tall with long, thin limbs and little body fat. Most supermodels and basketball players are the ectomorph body type. It is an unrealistic goal for many people not born this type.

• Mesomorph body types are characterized by an athletic, strong, and compact body. The world's top figure skaters and tennis players tend to fall into the mesomorph category.

• Endomorphs are round and gain weight easily.

The body type that you were born with is the body type that you will have for life. It is one of your physical characteristics, just like your eye color. If your goal is to keep yourself in the best of health, by avoiding excess weight, exercising daily, and maintaining correct posture you will look fabulous whatever body type you possess.

Do You Need a Medicine Cabinet Makeover?

I have heard some pretty amazing stories from patients about the lengths they have gone to in order to lose weight: fad diets, smoking, laxatives, and even stimulants like amphetamines and cocaine. Losing weight by any of these methods can result in a disruption of the body's chemistry. While people may lose weight by such means, their health declines and they end up looking worse and worse.

Unscrupulous medical professionals, especially via the Internet, give ready access to a variety of dubious medications promising weight loss. Many of my patients have previously tried unsuccessfully to become thinner by taking such "miracle" pills and potions only to find that the drugs were sabotaging their health. Thyroid stimulants, diuretics, nervous system stimulants, and the like can take a strong mind and body and turn it into a medical emergency: Unnecessary thyroid medication will cause bone loss and arrhythmias. Diuretics are dehydrating and put a strain on the heart. Stimulants cause an increase in both blood pressure and heart rate. Yet I have seen many patients who, out of desperation, have resorted to these means.

Don't become lured by an unhealthy solution to excess weight. There is no place in your life for this!

Drugs That Cause Weight Gain

A number of prescription and over-the-counter medications are associated with significant weight gain. Unfortunately, patients are not always told in advance about this unwelcome side effect: A weight gain occurs and the patient doesn't know why.

These medications are frequent causes of weight gain:

• Antidepressants: Fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil) are effective antidepressants but can increase weight. A different class of antidepressant also associated with weight gain is mirtazapine (Remeron). For someone who is depressed, these drugs can lift the heavy emotional load; however, they should only be prescribed by a competent psychiatrist -- never purchase them on the Internet. Antidepressants that do not increase weight are bupropion (Wellbutrin) and nefazodone (Serzone).

• Antipsychotics

• Antiseizure medications: Just about all of these medications cause some weight gain with the exception of topiramate (Topamax), which may cause weight loss.

• Oral contraceptives (Yasmin may cause weight loss)

• Corticosteroids (for asthma, autoimmune conditions, and allergies)

• Antihistamines (for allergies)

• Beta blockers (for high blood pressure)