Apple or Pear?

[michelem]

I've been discussing inability to lose weight with my friends and we think we may have found something common among those of us that eat right, wholesome/balanced diets, workout regularly, don't drink, don't smoke, etc. yet for some weird reason cannot lose weight.. or maybe lose a pound every other month. Those of us having this problem are all "apple" shaped. We carry our weight primarily in our belly and upper torso. Yet, we have slim legs, and are small in the hips and butt.

You may want to get tested for PCOS. Two risk factors/symptoms are the inability to lose weight and being apple shaped.

http://www.afterthediet.com/polycystic.htm

Consider the following questions:

Do you have a family history of infertility, irregular periods, or diabetes?
Are you of Hispanic descent?
Do you have a history of early puberty (first period at 11 years or younger?)
Did you ever take medication for depression, bipolar disorder, seizure disorder, epilepsy, or migraine?*
Did you ever have gestational diabetes in any of your pregnancies?
Do you have an android ("apple shaped") body type (measure your waist to hip ratio; greater than .8 equals an android body type)?
Do you have irregular periods (or none at all)
Do you have dark velvety patches of skin on you neck, groin, or in your armpits?
Do you have hair loss or male balding spots?
Difficulty losing weight?
Intense cravings for carbohydrates or sweets?
Problems conceiving?
Decreased sex drive?
Excess hair growth on your face, like a mustache or beard?
Excess hair on your chest or back?
Acne on your face, chest or back?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are at a higher risk for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, which can place you at risk for diabetes and certain types of cancer. Print out this list and take it to your doctor.
*Not all medications for all of these conditions cause PCOS. However, if you are on these medications and have noticed an increase in other symptoms, please consult with your physician.