Why Your Body Won’t Let Go of the Weight — and What a Naturopathic Doctor Can Do About It

Feeling stuck in your body — no matter what you try?

If you’re struggling to lose weight, even with “clean eating” or exercise, it’s time to stop blaming your willpower.

As a naturopathic physician specializing in weight loss and chronic inflammatory conditions, I see this all the time: your body isn’t resisting weight loss — it’s protecting you.

At our clinic, we use functional medicine and precision nutrition to uncover the root causes behind stubborn weight gain, low energy, bloating, and hormonal imbalance.

Root Causes of Weight Gain in Women (That Most Doctors Miss)

1. Chronic Stress and Cortisol Imbalance

If your body is in “fight or flight” mode, it’s holding onto fat — especially around your belly. We measure stress hormone levels and use natural strategies like adaptogens, lifestyle coaching, and targeted nutrition to restore balance.

2. Sleep Disruption and Hormonal Hunger

Those with disrupted sleep have higher levels of ghrelin (your hunger hormone) and lower leptin (your fullness hormone). We optimize sleep naturally with science-backed nutrients and personalized sleep hygiene plans.

3. Gut Health, Inflammation, and Weight Retention

Your gut isn’t just about digestion — it’s your metabolic control center. Poor microbiome diversity and low-grade chronic inflammation can drive cravings, insulin resistance, and fatigue. We run comprehensive stool testing and create targeted gut healing protocols.

4. Hormone Changes After 35

Even before menopause, shifting levels of estrogen, progesterone, and insulin can change how your body stores fat. Using botanical medicine and precision nutrition, we support women through perimenopause, PCOS, and thyroid imbalance.

How Naturopathic Weight Loss Works Differently

Forget one-size-fits-all diets. Our approach is rooted in:

  • Precision Nutrition — evidence-based plans based on labs, symptoms, and life stage.

  • Functional Testing — hormones, gut, thyroid, inflammation markers.

  • Natural Therapies — herbs, nutrients, mind-body medicine.

  • Anti-inflammatory protocols — personalized to your root causes.

You don’t need another diet. You need a partnership with someone who sees the full picture.

About the Physician

Dr. Clara Barnett is a naturopathic doctor with advanced training in weight loss, hormone balance, and chronic inflammatory diseases. She’s a specialist in precision nutrition blending science and compassion to help patients get real results — naturally.

If you're tired of quick fixes and ready for natural, sustainable weight loss, we’re here to help. Schedule your consultation today and discover what your body has been trying to tell you all along. Contact her office at 425-539-0800 or send an email to staff@drclara.com. Her offices are conveniently located in Seattle and Bellevue, and appointments are also available via telemedicine. Most insurance plans are accepted.

Clara Barnett