They say medication makes weight loss impossible… but what if the secret lies in how you navigate the challenge?

The Myth vs. The Truth

Many believe prescription drugs doom you to lifelong weight gain. But science reveals a different story. Medications like antidepressants, steroids, or insulin can disrupt metabolism, but strategic lifestyle adjustments can counteract these effects.

Let’s dive into the how.

Why Do Medications Cause Weight Gain?

How do pills translate to pounds?

Different medications act through different biochemical pathways. While SSRIs hijack your carb cravings, steroids sneakily boost cortisol—both pushing the scale in the wrong direction. Here are a few examples:

• Insulin and steroids boost fat storage by increasing lipogenesis (fat creation) and cortisol levels.
• Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs) alter serotonin pathways, ramping up cravings for carbohydrate-rich foods like semolina (semo) or pounded yam (iyan).
• Beta-blockers slow metabolism by reducing calorie-burning thermogenesis.

Scientific Rationale: Excess cortisol (from steroids) promotes visceral fat accumulation, while leptin resistance (from chronic inflammation) tricks the brain into ignoring “fullness” signals. By targeting these pathways, you can tilt the scale in your favor.

5 Evidence-Based Strategies to Counter Medication-Induced Weight Gain

1. Prioritize Protein-Rich Foods

Can protein shield you from hunger spikes? High-protein diets boost satiety by stimulating GLP-1 (a gut hormone that suppresses appetite).

Incorporate:

• Igbo: Oziza (snail), Ugu (pumpkin seeds)
• Hausa: Kwatalliya (grilled chicken), Tambura (lentils)
• Yoruba: Egusi (melon seeds), Adalu (beans and corn)

2. Leverage Fiber for Metabolic Efficiency

Can fiber outsmart insulin resistance? Soluble fiber (e.g., oats, flaxseeds) slows glucose absorption, reducing insulin spikes. Pair with bitter leaf (Ewuro) in soups to enhance liver detoxification.

3. Time Your Meals to Sync with Circadian Rhythms

Does when you eat matter more than what you eat? Eating within an 8-hour window (e.g., 9 AM–5 PM) enhances autophagy, a cellular “clean-up” process that improves metabolic flexibility and reduces inflammation.

4. Strategic Supplementation

Can vitamins counteract drug-induced deficiencies?

• Statins can deplete CoQ10, slowing energy production.
• Omega-3 (from azukalabu in Igbo or ƛarya in Hausa) helps reduce inflammation.

Always check with your doctor before supplementing.

5. Low-Impact Movement for Hormonal Balance

Can walking reset your fat-burning hormones? Daily 30-minute walks lower cortisol and boost adiponectin, a hormone that enhances insulin sensitivity.

Quick Win Checklist: 5 Anti-Gain Habits to Start Today

• ☑ Switch white rice for tuwo masara (Hausa cornmeal)
• ☑ Add bitter herbs like utazi to stews
• ☑ Walk for 30 minutes each morning
• ☑ Eat protein at every meal
• ☑ Avoid eating past 6 PM

Call to Action

Start today with one empowering change—swap white rice for tuwo masara, or stir in utazi for a bitter yet healing twist. Your body deserves the chance to thrive.

Imagine reclaiming your energy, your shape, your confidence—even while staying on your meds. It starts with knowledge. And a small step.

Final Note

Always consult your healthcare provider before making any dietary or exercise changes. But remember: you hold the power to adapt, thrive, and outsmart side effects.