The cause of weight gain and obesity sounds deceptively clear-cut -- if you take in more calories than you use, you will gain weight. But in actuality, there are several underlying factors that can add to your weight gain. These factors go beyond calories consumed and burned. Some weight gain is a natural part of life, particularly for women. Weight gain occurs with pregnancy, and a periodic weight gain could occur with menstruation (typically referred to as "water weight").
Aging is also a natural and likely cause of a certain amount of weight gain. As we age, our metabolism slows, which can cause weight gain unless we also reduce the amount of food we consume and get sufficient exercise.
You could also gain weight because of other reasons that are not a part of everyone's every day life. Alcohol abuse, some prescription drugs, and depression can also contribute to weight gain.
Most people seem to be concerned with weight gain and obesity simply for the self esteem factor. However, how we fit into our clothes and how we look in the mirror is not nearly as important as the medical conditions that can result due to obesity. These can include, but are not limited to, endocrine diseases, heart & lung disorders, and depression.
The good news is that weight gain, in spite of its cause, can often be combated with consistent lifestyle and dietary changes and an boost in physical activity.
If you are ready to change your life and start losing weight today!
