Exploring Possible Reasons for Unexplained Weight Gain

Most people that experience unexplained weight gain attribute it to their age. And sadly, many people just accept it as fate. The good news is that there are reasons for unexplained weight gain. This article will explain some possibilities for this phenomena.

Hypothyroidism Weight Gain

Hypothyroidism weight gain is caused by an under producing thyroid gland. This condition afflicts millions of people every year. It is a result of a decrease in the production of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) being produced by the thyroid gland. The pituitary regulates the endocrine function of the thyroid. The thyroid regulates the metabolism which helps to control weight. Without TSH in inadequate amounts, weight gain can occur. Often hypothyroidism weight gain is overlooked or attributed to some other underlying disorder.

Although hypothyroidism is easy to treat, losing the weight is sometimes difficult. The symptoms of gaining weight are often very subtle. As a result, physicians do not look to the thyroid first as the cause of weight gain. Sometimes the weight gain is so slow and beyond realization that people take stringent steps to lose weight all the while not knowing the weight gain is because they have a thyroid problem (which is easily treated).

Menopause in Women

Another reason for unexplained weight gain is menopause in women. As a women approaches menopause, the body's hormone levels decline, thus causing many changes to occur. As estrogen levels decline, a women's body will naturally look for other places from where to get the needed estrogen. Unfortunately, fat cells are capable of producing estrogen, which results in the body working harder to convert calories to fat.

In addition to the declining levels of estrogen, the body's testosterone levels are also declining. Testosterone is the steroid hormone that stimulates the conversion of calories to lean muscle mass. As such, with lower testosterone levels people lose muscle mass. Since muscle burns far more calories than does fat, the body is no longer capable of burning calories as efficiently as once before.

Food Allergies

Another dilemma that can result in the unexplained weight gain is a food allergy. Many people don't consider the fact that not all food allergies result in rashes or difficulty breathing. One indication of a food allergy can be a rapid weight gain. In this case, it can be helpful to determine what foods were recently introduced into the diet. You can remove one at a time to help determine the culprit and then avoid that food completely.

Prescription Medications

Some prescription medications can also be the culprit. Many young women are aware of the fact that several types of birth control pills can cause quick weight gain. If this does occur, the woman can inquire about a different brand or type of pill when speaking to a professional health care provider. Some of the low dose pills that assimilate a woman's menstrual cycle are not as likely to result in increased body weight. In fact, some may even result in weight loss.

There are several ways that antidepressants can cause weight gain. For example, antidepressants can slow down a person's metabolism. By reducing the caloric intake or by beginning a consistent but reasonable exercise program, the metabolism can be jump-started again. Antidepressants can cause hormonal fluctuation that increase the appetite. Some antidepressants can cause the individual to be more tranquil which can result in a more sedentary lifestyle. Antidepressants can give rise to mood swings that make it difficult for an individual to stick to a consistent schedule. Some antidepressants (especially Celexa and Amytripyline) appear to cause uninitiated food cravings. Side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure can have a person feeling as though they are living "minute too minute"which makes it hard pressed to plan and stick to a disciplined exercise schedule. It is important to note, however, that individuals currently taking antidepressants should never alter their medication schedule without first speaking to their physician.

Unexpected weight gain can increase the difficulties linked to psychiatric and seizure disorders by further aggravating mood instability and low self-esteem.

Lose Inches at the Waistline

The most effective means at which to lose weight are the most obvious - lower caloric intake and a adhere to a consistent exercise program. To lower caloric intake, one can easily do this by reducing or eliminate alcohol intake. Excessive alcohol does nothing but add inches to a person's waistline. Exercise programs are easy to adhere to if a club or gym is located nearby. Aerobics classes for beginners are the best way to get started. Having a professional on-hand is helpful.

What can I do if I have experienced unexplained weight gain?

The first and most important thing anyone who has experienced unexplained weight gain is to visit a health care professional. It is important to have a list of the questions available. Take these notes to the appointment. Many people complain that when they get to the doctor's office they forget the questions or concerns they had prior to the appointment.

Tips For a Healthy Lifestyle

Exercise, eat a healthy, balanced menu and lead a healthy lifestyle. A combination of awareness of your body, health diet, and a consistent but reasonable work-out routine can do wonders for health and state of mind.