Dear Beth_Browning, thank you for your post and I am sorry you are having some health challenges all at once.
In my opinion, the removal of the gall bladder is not what is causing the weight gain, but once the gall bladder is removed most people have to make changes in their diet. From your postings I am not sure if the weight gain started before or after the steroid injections. It is very possible that your gut instict may be correct about the steriod injections. If the injections are "anabolic steroids" which are used to promote tissue growth i.e. muscle, then you will gain weight!
Medications, including corticosteroids and also tricyclic antidepressants, may also cause weight gain as a side effect. Are you taking something for depression?
You may be also experiencing a vicious cycle with the added stress and anxiety your are feeling as a result of the weight gain. Stress is known to contribute to obesity. Your "clinical depression" is adding to the stress and your body will signal the adrenal glands to release a hormone called cortisol. Research suggests that increase in cortisol levels may lead to increased fat around the midsection.
Have you noticed if you are eating differently? For comfort? Have you been active? What type of medication are you taking to treat the clinical depression? It is a well-known fact that stress can make women eat more carbs as they produce serotonim in the "gut" thus givings us a feel good feeling (comfort foods). Watch your diet patterns, write down what you are eating. Foods high in fats and sugars may help reduce the body's response to stress and limit the amount of cortisol that is released. However, frequent indulging in these foods typically develop excess abdominal fat.
Make sure to share your concerns with your physician.
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Dear Beth_Browning, thank you for your post and I am sorry you are having some health challenges all at once.
In my opinion, the removal of the gall bladder is not what is causing the weight gain, but once the gall bladder is removed most people have to make changes in their diet. From your postings I am not sure if the weight gain started before or after the steroid injections. It is very possible that your gut instict may be correct about the steriod injections. If the injections are "anabolic steroids" which are used to promote tissue growth i.e. muscle, then you will gain weight!
Medications, including corticosteroids and also tricyclic antidepressants, may also cause weight gain as a side effect. Are you taking something for depression?
You may be also experiencing a vicious cycle with the added stress and anxiety your are feeling as a result of the weight gain. Stress is known to contribute to obesity. Your "clinical depression" is adding to the stress and your body will signal the adrenal glands to release a hormone called cortisol. Research suggests that increase in cortisol levels may lead to increased fat around the midsection.
Have you noticed if you are eating differently? For comfort? Have you been active? What type of medication are you taking to treat the clinical depression? It is a well-known fact that stress can make women eat more carbs as they produce serotonim in the "gut" thus givings us a feel good feeling (comfort foods). Watch your diet patterns, write down what you are eating. Foods high in fats and sugars may help reduce the body's response to stress and limit the amount of cortisol that is released. However, frequent indulging in these foods typically develop excess abdominal fat.
Make sure to share your concerns with your physician.
May 16, 2009 - 12:52amThis Comment
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