Weight gain happens quickly and unexpectedly especially when hormone changes, stress, use of medications, or menopause are related, for example, in which there may be decreased metabolism and increased fat accumulation. Consuming foods that speed up metabolism can help decrease unwanted weight gain in these cases.
Therefore, if weight gain is perceived unexpectedly, even if there is healthy exercise and eating habits, it is important to check with the doctor if you are undergoing medical treatment if there is another alternative medicine that has fewer side effects and also increase energy expenditure with more physical activity.
The main causes of rapid weight gain are:
1. Fluid retention
What to do: If swelling is noticed, one of the ways to reduce swelling is through lymphatic drainage, which is a gentle type of massage that can be done manually or with specific equipment and stimulates lymphatic circulation, the retained fluids are directed into the bloodstream and eliminated in the urine, but it is important to go to the doctor so that the cause of fluid retention can be identified and treatment initiated.
Another way to reduce the swelling caused by fluid retention is through the consumption of teas that have a diuretic effect or medications, which should be indicated by the doctor, in addition to regular physical exercise combined with a healthy and low-salt diet.
Fluid retention can lead to weight gain due to fluid accumulation inside the cells, which can be due to a high sodium intake, low water intake, use of some medications and due to a health problem such as heart problems, thyroid disorders, kidney and liver disease, for example.
2. Hormonal problems
What to do: In the case of hypothyroidism, for example, if any symptom is detected that indicates this condition, it is recommended to go to the doctor to be asked for tests that indicate the amount of hormones produced by the thyroid and, thus, it is possible to conclude the diagnosis and start treatment. Learn more about the T4 exam.
The treatment for these cases is usually done with the replacement of the T4 hormone, which must be taken fasting at least 20 minutes before breakfast or according to the guidance of the endocrinologist. Learn more about the treatment of hypothyroidism.
The change in the production of some hormones can lead to rapid weight gain, such as hypothyroidism, which is characterized by changes in the thyroid that lead to a decrease in the production of hormones T3 and T4, which help the metabolism by providing the energy necessary for the functioning of the body. Thus, with the decrease in the production of thyroid hormones, there is a decrease in metabolism, excessive fatigue and accumulation of fat, which promotes rapid weight gain.
3. Use of medicines
What to do: Weight gain varies from person to person, but if the person feels very uncomfortable, it is recommended that you consult your doctor for alternative treatment. It is important not to interrupt the use of the medicine without first consulting the doctor, as there may be regression or progression of the clinical picture.
Prolonged use of some medications can lead to weight gain. In the case of corticosteroids, for example, which are generally recommended in the treatment of chronic inflammatory processes, constant use may alter fat metabolism, resulting in irregular fat distribution in the body and increased weight, as well as decreased muscle mass and changes in the bowel and stomach.
4. Constipation
What to do: The trapped gut happens mostly due to poor fiber eating and lack of physical activity. Thus, it is necessary to improve eating habits, giving preference to the consumption of foods rich in fiber, in addition to the practice of physical exercises on a regular basis.
If constipation is persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, such as bleeding on bowel movements, presence of mucus in the stool, or hemorrhoids, it is important to see a gastroenterologist.
Constipation, also called a bowel or intestinal constipation, is characterized by a decrease in the frequency of bowel movements, and when it does, the stool is dry and hard, which favors the appearance of hemorrhoids, for example. Due to the lack of bowel movements, the stool is accumulated, which generates a sensation of swelling and weight gain.
5. Age
What to do: To reduce the effects of hormonal and metabolic changes that occur in the body due to aging, it is important to have healthy habits, exercise and a balanced diet. In some cases, the gynecologist may recommend that a woman undergo hormone replacement to decrease the symptoms of menopause.
Age is one of the leading causes of weight gain fast and unintentionally. This happens because with the advancing age, the metabolism becomes slower, that is, the body has more difficulty to burn fats, causing it to be stored longer, leading to weight gain.
In the case of women, for example, menopause, which usually occurs after the age of 40, can also lead to weight gain, as there is a decrease in the production of the female hormones, which leads to fluid retention and, consequently, Weight. See all about menopause.
6. Pregnancy
What to do: Although weight gain in pregnancy is normal, it is important for the woman to pay attention to what she eats, since nutritionally poor or nutritious meals can result in gestational diabetes and high blood pressure in pregnancy, for example, which may put the life of the mother and the baby at risk.
It is recommended that the woman follow up with the obstetrician and nutritionist during pregnancy to avoid excessive weight gain or the consumption of unhealthy foods for the baby.
It is normal for weight gain in pregnancy due to the fetus and the amount of food to be consumed, since it should be enough to nourish the mother and the baby. Learn how to control weight during pregnancy with the following video:
7. Insomnia
What to do: One of the attitudes to combat insomnia is to sleep hygiene, that is, to always try to wake up at the same time, avoid sleeping during the day and avoid touching the cell phone or watching television for at least 1 hour before bed. In addition, teas can be taken with calming properties at night, such as chamomile tea, for example, as it helps to soothe and improve sleep quality. See also 4 sleep therapy methods for better sleep.
Insomnia, which is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty sleeping or staying asleep, can cause weight gain fast and unintentionally. This is because the hormone responsible for sleep, melatonin, when not produced or produced in small quantity, in addition to preventing adequate sleep, decreases the process of burning fat, increasing weight.
In addition, as a result of badly sleeping nights, there is a decrease in the production of the hormone responsible for the feeling of satiety, leptin, which causes the person to continue eating and consequently gain weight.
8. Stress, Depression and Anxiety
What to do: It is important to seek the help of a psychologist or psychiatrist to identify the cause that leads to anxiety, stress, or depression, and appropriate treatment can be initiated for each case. Most of the time identifying the problem triggering these situations is enough to help the person fight it. It is also important for the person to practice activities that promote their well-being, such as reading a book, going out with friends and practicing outdoor activities, for example.
In situations of stress and anxiety, for example, the tension felt constantly can cause the person to look for foods that guarantee the sensation of pleasure and well-being, as in sweet foods, for example, which can lead to weight gain .
In the case of depression, as there is a decrease in disposition and interest in carrying out daily activities, including physical activity, the search for a sense of well-being leads to greater consumption of chocolates and cakes, resulting in weight gain.
9. Lack of nutrients
What to do: In these cases it is important to pay attention to food and seek nutritional help so that a balanced diet is recommended and that nutritional needs are met. Know the benefits of healthy eating.
One of the symptoms of lack of nutrients is excessive tiredness and unwillingness to do daily activities. Thus, fatigue can make the person not have the will or the willingness to exercise, which causes the metabolism to slow down and weight gain.
The lack of nutrients can occur due to the consumption of nutritionally poor foods, a little food intake or due to the body's deficiency in absorbing these nutrients even if there is an adequate diet.
When to go to the doctor
If it is perceived that weight gain is unintentional, it is recommended to go to the doctor for tests to be checked so that the cause of the fast weight gain can be checked and appropriate treatment initiated for the situation.
Regardless of gain or loss of weight, it is important to maintain healthy habits, such as regular physical exercise and proper nutrition, as it improves the quality of life, the sense of well-being and prevents various diseases.
