The main reason for weight gain is consuming more calories than you should, coupled with a reduction in the exercise. Some people gain weight when they are eating and exercising the same as they always do. Let’s take a closer look at other reasons that affect weight.
Are you getting enough sleep?
Not sleeping and indulging in late-night snacking is an obvious reason. Another reason for lack of sleep putting on weight could be the biochemical changes in the body from sleep deprivation that make you continuously hungry.
Are you always stressed?
Cortisol is released into our body when we’re stressed. This hormone heightens our appetite to reach for high sugar foods.
Are you on antidepressants?
One of the side effects of antidepressants is weight gain. Discuss changing your medication with your doctor if you are putting on weight.
Are you on Steroids?
Steroids cause weight gain due to fluid retention and an increased appetite. How much weight you put on is related to the dosage and how long you have been taking it. It can change fat is distribution in the face, the neck, and waist.
Are you on drugs that affect your weight?
Prescription drugs can cause weight gain. Such as antipsychotic drugs used to treat schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. Medicines managing seizures, migraines, diabetes, and hypertension too. Discuss with your doctor options that have fewer side effects.
Are you on the Pill?
Women think that taking oral contraceptives causes weight gain. Mild fluid retention takes place, and it doesn’t last long.
Are you suffering from Hypothyroidism?
An underactive thyroid gland makes you feel tired, cold, and bloated. Low levels will slow down your metabolism, and you will gain weight. Hypothyroidism is easily treated with hormone replacement.
Are you Menopausal?
Some weight during menopause is normal. Low testosterone and estrogen levels slow the metabolism. If you don’t alter your food choices and your exercise routine, it affects fat deposits and increases the accumulation of fat around the waist.
Cushing’s Syndrome
Cushing’s syndrome is a condition characterized by elevated levels of the hormone Cortisol. It can occur if your body makes too much cortisol or if you take steroid medications for asthma,
lupus, or arthritis. Cortisol excess can cause weight gain and an increase of fat around the face, neck, waist, and upper back.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS typically have many small cysts within the ovaries. PCOS causes hormonal imbalances that can lead to excess body hair, acne, and insulin resistance, which can cause weight gain. In PCOS, the weight gain tends to occur in the abdominal area, increasing the risk for heart disease.
Quitting Smoking
People who quit smoking may gain a small amount of weight. Most people put on 10 lbs. or less. The reasons are varied, Without nicotine:
· You may feel hungrier, although this effect tends to disappear after a few weeks.
· Your metabolism may decrease.
· You may enjoy food more or feel it tastes better, which could lead to overindulging.
· You may eat more high fat or sugary snacks, or drink more alcohol.
Rule 1: If You Do Gain Weight
If you do gain weight, never stop taking any medications without talking with your doctor. It may be essential for your health and well-being.
Rule 2: If You Do Gain Weight
If you do put on weight from taking a drug, don’t compare yourself to others on the same medication. Side effects are different for different people. Talk to your doctor if you feel you’re experiencing weight gain as a medication side effect.
Rule 3: If You Do Gain Weight
Don’t panic if you gain weight due to water retention as a medication side effect. This side effect may decrease with time or when your doctor tells you to stop the drug. In the meantime, you can avoid fluid retention by following a lower-sodium diet.
Rule 4: If You Do Gain Weight
Your doctor may be able to switch you to a different drug with fewer side effects if you are troubled by weight gain.
Rule 5: If You Do Gain Weight
If your weight gain is a result of slowed metabolism, give your metabolism a boost. Start moving and increasing your physical activity. If you have a chronic medical condition, discuss your plans with your doctor.
