Understanding weight gain: causes, consequences, and healthy approaches
Weight gain can be caused by:
Caloric Surplus A major cause of weight gain, is eating more calories that the body can burn. This surplus energy will be stored as body fat, resulting in an increase of overall weight gain. Caloric surplus can be caused by factors like excessive food consumption, sedentary habits, and eating high-calorie foods.
genetics: genetic factors play an important role in determining whether or not a person is susceptible to weight gain. It is possible that some people are genetically predisposed to store fat in a more efficient manner, which makes them susceptible to weight gain even when they maintain a relatively healthy diet.
Weight Gain and Hormonal Imbalances Hormones regulate metabolism. A hormonal imbalance can result from conditions such as hypothyroidism (low thyroid function), polycysticovarian syndrome (PCOS), or insulin resistance.
Medications Certain medications such as antidepressants, corticosteroids, and antipsychotics may cause weight gain. Consult a health professional if your medication seems to be impacting your weight.
Consequences Of Weight Gain
Risks to Health: Excessive Weight Gain is associated with a number of health risks. These include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and hypertension. Maintaining a good weight is vital for health and longevity.
Impact on the Mind: Increased weight can negatively impact self-esteem and affect body image. Individuals can experience anxiety, stress or depression. This may lead them to adopt unhealthy coping strategies such as emotional eating.
Joint and mobility issues: A large amount of weight on the body can lead to joint pain and decreased mobility. This can lead to an unhealthy lifestyle that is characterized by sedentary activities, which in turn contributes to weight gain.
Healthy Ways to Gain Weight:
Nutrition Balance: Rather than relying heavily on high-calorie and low-nutrient food, opt for a balanced diet with a variety fruits, vegetables, proteins lean, and whole grains. This approach will ensure that your body is receiving essential nutrients and promoting sustainable weight loss.
Regular Workout: Regular workouts are essential to a healthy weight-gain journey. Strength training exercises will help you build muscle, resulting in a leaner and more proportionate body.
Consultation With Healthcare Professionals If the weight gain you’re experiencing isn’t intentional, but due to an underlying medical condition, then it is essential that you consult with a healthcare professional. They can carry out thorough assessments, and provide personalized advice as well as treatment plans.
Set Realistic and Achievable Goals: Setting realistic and achieveable weight gain goals is essential for long-term achievement. Rapid weight gains can be unhealthy and hard for you to maintain. Slower changes are better.