In general obesity is mainly linked with fried foods, sugary soft drinks, decadent desserts, large portions and alcohol. Agreed, the above mentioned foods do cause obesity but they are not “the only” culprits for abnormal weight gain. Sometimes it is observed that even after checking the calorie count and regular exercise few people tend to gain extra weight. There are several hidden factors acting together hence resulting in weight gain.
Author of Am I Hungry? What to Do When Diets Don’t Work, Michelle May, M.D. explains: “Weight gain is so complicated; there are so many factors that can impact your weight. It is more likely a combination of things more than just one factor.“ Some of the important hidden factors which are increasing your weight are listed below:
- Lack of Sleep: Your body requires proper rest to function properly. In case you are unable to get at least 8 hours of restful sleep then also there are chances of gaining weight. Lack of sleep leads to stress and fatigue and to overcome them you may consume extra calories. Some people think food as the solution for their sleepless nights. It is better that you try to get at least 8 hours of restful sleep in the nights. Do regular exercise and maintain a good sleeping habit this will regulate your weight as well as keep you energetic throughout the day.
- Excess Stress: With the changing life-style and on-going demands to excel and achieve the stress levels tend to increase. Higher stress levels activates body’s biochemical process were your body goes into survival mode. In the survival mode body tends to slow down its metabolism, stores fuel and dump out chemicals. These chemicals like leptin, cortisol and hormones tend to cause obesity specifically in the abdominal region. It is also observed that stressed people tend to eat more, this adds on to the weight gain.
- Medications: Certain prescribed drugs especially for conditions like mood disorders, depression, blood pressure, migraines, diabetes and seizures also cause weight gain. Even steroids, oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy acts as culprits and gradually add-on to the weight. According to experts some of the common types of medications which lead to obesity are: Steroids, Heartburn Medications, Diabetes Medications, Antidepressants, Antipsychotics, High Blood Pressure Medications and Antiseizure Medication.
- Medical Condition: Certain medical conditions also lead to obesity. One of the most common medical conditions causing obesity is hypothyroidism. In case of hypothyroidism deficiency of thyroid hormone causes appetite loss, reduced metabolic rate and weight gain. Another medical condition leading to weight gain is Cushing’s Syndrome.
- Menopause: In case of women, menopause can also cause weight gain. After attaining menopause women tend to become less physically active. Physiologically the metabolism rate slows down and the hormonal changes enhance hunger cravings, poor sleep and depression. Menopause acts as a multi-factorial condition which leads to obesity.
These were some of the hidden factors which can cause weight gain. To avoid excess weight gain and regulate your weight it is advisable to follow a healthy life-style, eat healthy and balanced diet and do regular exercise.
