Your diet and how active you are play a significant role in keeping your weight in check. However, many people don't realize that there are other factors at play when it comes to gaining weight besides just what we eat and how much we exercise. In particular, hormonal imbalances and medical conditions can significantly influence weight management.
Let's dive into a few surprising reasons that might be contributing to your weight gain.
1. Thyroid Issues
Hypothyroidism is a major contributor to unexplained weight gain. When your thyroid glands fail to produce adequate levels of thyroxin (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), it can lead to metabolic slowdowns and weight fluctuations. Symptoms such as irregular periods, constant fatigue, constipation, and feeling unusually cold are commonly associated with this condition. Recent studies have shown that nearly one-third of individuals with obesity may also have overt hypothyroidism, highlighting the importance of thyroid function in weight regulation [3]. If you're noticing weight gain along with these symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional promptly.
2. Monthly Cycles
Weight gain can also be a pesky side effect of your menstrual cycle. During PMS, many experience bloating and cravings for unhealthy snacks, which can lead to a few extra pounds during that time of the month. Hormonal fluctuations can influence appetite and water retention, making it a challenging period for weight management.
3. Water Retention
Do you tend to add a lot of salt to your meals? If so, this could lead to water retention, a condition that can make you feel bloated and contribute to perceived weight gain. When you're dehydrated and weigh yourself, the results can be skewed due to retained water. This phenomenon can be exacerbated by hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle or increased sodium intake, leading to temporary weight fluctuations.
4. Stress and Depression
When we're under significant stress, our bodies release cortisol, a hormone that can lead to weight gain, accelerated aging, and chronic inflammation. Chronic stress is linked to increased appetite and cravings for high-calorie foods, making weight management even more challenging [1]. It's essential to find effective stress management techniques to mitigate these effects.
5. Birth Control
Your choice of birth control can also impact your weight. Depending on the type and dosage, particularly with hormonal pills, you might experience fluctuations in your weight. Some studies suggest that hormonal contraceptives can alter body composition and lead to weight gain, so if you've recently switched your birth control and noticed some extra pounds, it may be time to discuss alternatives with your doctor [2].
6. Aging
As we age, our metabolism naturally slows and we tend to lose lean muscle mass. This decline in metabolic rate can make weight management more challenging, requiring greater attention to diet and exercise. Additionally, research indicates that hypothyroidism, which may develop with age, can further complicate weight management by affecting body composition and increasing insulin resistance [5].
If you're concerned about any of these factors affecting your weight, consider reaching out for an online doctor consultation. An online AI doctor can help you understand your body better. You could also chat with a doctor about your specific situation and explore options that work for you.
References:
- Udit M Zamwar, Komal N Muneshwar. Epidemiology, Types, Causes, Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Hypothyroidism.. PubMed. 2023.
- Christine N Huynh, Janina V Pearce, Le Kang, Francesco S Celi. Weight Gain After Thyroidectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.. PubMed. 2021.
- Vineeth Thomas, Sindhusree Rallapalli, Nitin Kapoor, Sanjay Kalra. Weight gain and Thyroid in women: The coexisting confounders.. PubMed. 2022.
- Tiffany Schumaker, Marisa Censani. Growth Failure and Excessive Weight Gain in a 10 Year Old Male With Obesity: Approach to Diagnosis, Management, and Treatment of Acquired Hypothyroidism.. PubMed. 2018.
- Sangeetha Sirigiri, Suresh Vaikkakara, Alok Sachan, P V L N Srinivasarao, Sunil Epuri, Sailaja Anantarapu, Arun Mukka, Srinivasa Rao Chokkapu, Ashok Venkatanarasu, Ravi Poojari. Correction of Hypothyroidism Leads to Change in Lean Body Mass without Altering Insulin Resistance.. PubMed. 2016.