Unintentional Weight Loss: Causes and Concerns for Students

Continuous weight loss?

When I entered my department as a freshman, I weighed about 85 kg and was 176 cm tall, with a relatively robust build.
Since I was interested in basketball, I joined the department's basketball team, which involved a significant amount of training—about three times a week for three to four hours each session.
Additionally, I typically went to bed around one or two in the morning, and I felt like I was losing weight rapidly.
During my freshman year, I didn't get enough sleep, and by my sophomore year, working part-time made me even more fatigued.
I often felt too tired to get up, and with family issues adding to my stress, along with work pressure, I weighed myself yesterday and found that I had dropped to 65 kg.
This has made me a bit anxious.
I do not have symptoms of diabetes or hyperthyroidism, and I do not experience muscle weakness; I just sometimes feel very fatigued.
My body composition seems normal, with a higher muscle mass and little body fat, so I don't appear to have any health issues.
However, I have lost 20 kg over the past two years.
I would like to ask the doctor if this is normal or if there might be any underlying health conditions I should be concerned about.

Ray, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/07/07

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Maintaining a standard body weight is beneficial for health; however, rapid weight loss should be monitored for any underlying physiological abnormalities.
It is advisable to consult your family physician for an evaluation.
Changhua Hospital is here to support you.

Reply Date: 2016/07/07

More Info

Unintentional weight loss can be a concerning issue, especially for students who may already be dealing with various stressors related to academics, work, and personal life. In your case, the significant weight loss from 85 kg to 65 kg over two years, particularly with the added pressures of college life, is noteworthy and warrants a closer examination.

Firstly, it's essential to understand that weight loss can occur for various reasons, and not all of them are related to health issues. In your situation, several factors may be contributing to your weight loss:
1. Increased Physical Activity: Joining the basketball team and engaging in rigorous training three times a week for several hours can lead to a substantial caloric deficit, especially if your caloric intake does not match your energy expenditure. This is particularly relevant for athletes, as they often require higher caloric intake to maintain their weight and muscle mass.

2. Sleep Deprivation: You mentioned that your sleep schedule is irregular, often going to bed around 1 or 2 AM. Lack of sleep can affect your metabolism and appetite regulation. Sleep deprivation is linked to hormonal changes that can lead to increased hunger and cravings, but it can also result in fatigue, which may reduce your overall activity levels and lead to weight loss if you are not compensating with food intake.

3. Stress and Emotional Factors: The stress from family issues and work can also play a significant role in weight changes. Stress can lead to changes in eating habits, either causing some individuals to eat less or to engage in emotional eating. In your case, it seems that stress may have contributed to a decrease in appetite or food intake, leading to weight loss.

4. Nutritional Intake: If your busy schedule is affecting your ability to prepare and consume balanced meals, you might not be getting enough calories or nutrients to support your activity level. This can further exacerbate weight loss.

5. Potential Health Issues: While you have ruled out diabetes and hyperthyroidism, it is still crucial to consider other potential health issues that could lead to weight loss, such as gastrointestinal disorders, malabsorption issues, or other metabolic conditions.
Given these factors, it is essential to assess your overall health and lifestyle. Here are some recommendations:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: It would be wise to schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss your weight loss and any other symptoms you may be experiencing. They may recommend blood tests or other evaluations to rule out underlying health issues.

- Monitor Your Diet: Keep a food diary to track your daily caloric intake and ensure you are consuming enough nutrients to support your activity level. Aim for a balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

- Prioritize Sleep: Try to establish a more regular sleep schedule. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night, as adequate rest is crucial for recovery, metabolism, and overall health.

- Manage Stress: Consider incorporating stress management techniques into your routine, such as mindfulness, meditation, or physical activities that you enjoy outside of basketball.
- Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day, as dehydration can also lead to fatigue and decreased performance.

In conclusion, while your weight loss may be attributed to increased physical activity and lifestyle changes, it is essential to approach this situation holistically. By consulting with a healthcare professional, monitoring your diet, prioritizing sleep, and managing stress, you can work towards achieving a healthier balance that supports both your physical and mental well-being.

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