Another consideration is body composition. If I train with heavy weights my body weight will often increase. Muscle weighs the same as fat but it looks way different. The scale can be deceiving. 2 decades of training and I gain weight just hanging around the weight room. High reps, low weight will elicit an “aerobic” effect and promote fat loss.
Last but not least. I have a load of friends who did time. Suggesting what are sadly still illicit substances to a “friend” who has a felony record may be a bad decision. I have no opinion on this just want to throw out a different opinion- Don’t use illegal drugs with a felony record.
The only shortcuts involve surgery and dangerous shit like amphetamines. They all equal the same thing in the end though… less calories.
What about some professional help? Sounds like a load of heavy shit in this mans life. Mental health pro, dietitian, MD and lab work to see if there is a hormonal imbalance or shit like a tumor in his gut causing all this. Just ideas…
Best of luck to him. Takes a friend to be honest with you.