The frustration and annoyance of seeing extra
pounds on the scale, or of the sudden tightness of a favorite pair of pants, is
understandable.
But did you know that anything from a hormonal
imbalance to vitamin deficiencies to your medication can help control how much
you weigh?
1.
Anti-Depressants
Many anti-depressant medications cause weight
gain, so if you’re depressed and taking pills for it, expect to see a bump in
weight between 5 and 15 pounds, with continued gradual accumulation over the
years.
Solution: Seek out some workout buddies or a support group. “Attending
meetings, like Weight Watchers, or working out with a group of friends is a
great way to increase social support.
2.
Prescription Medications
There’s a long list of medications that can
cause weight gain:
Birth control pills
Hormones for hormone therapy
Steroids
Beta-blockers
Anti-seizure medication
Tamoxifen
Some treatments for rheumatoid arthritis
Treatments for migraines
Heartburn medications
Solution: If you suspect your medication is affecting your waistline,
your doctor may be able to find an alternative treatment that won’t have that
particular side effect.
3.
Digestive Problems
Digestive issues, including slow bowel
movements, may also account for excess pounds, If you’re not so
regular, dehydration, medications, low fiber, or even a lack of good flora in
your gut could be to blame.
Solution: If constipation is your only symptom, then trying probiotics
can help your digestive tract work properly. Staying hydrated is a key, along
with a diet chock-full of fiber-rich foods. But you can also try drinking a
fiber powder, like Metamucil, mixed with water. It may even grab fat globules
in your intestinal tract as it scrubs out waste, If you’re still having
trouble, check with your doctor to rule out a range of disorders, including
hypothyroidism or a neurological issue.
4.
Vitamin-Deficiencies
Being low in vitamin D, magnesium, or iron can
compromise your immune system, sap your energy levels, or alter your metabolism
in ways that make it harder to take healthy-lifestyle steps.
Solution: While you can try to boost your iron levels by eating red meat
and spinach and increase magnesium by adding Brazil nuts or almonds to your
diet, it’s nearly impossible to consume enough milk or get enough sunlight to
compensate for low vitamin D. It’s important to know that it could take awhile
to find your right dose of vitamin D. but it’s still wise to let your doctor
rule out hypothyroidism or other conditions that might cause insulin
resistance, and thus weight gain, before you start taking supplements.
5.
Age
It’s the one condition that’s unavoidable,
Often, I hear patients tell me they think their metabolism is slowing down.
Some studies show that exercise might be even more important than the diet for
long-term weight maintenance.”
Solution: Remember that all calories are not equal when it comes to
weight, Eating lean protein will cause your body to burn calories more
efficiently. On the other hand, carbs are something your body tends to burn
more slowly and even store in your body more readily. Health Conditions
Many conditions, such as thyroid disorders and
certain cancers, can result in unintentional weight gain. Additionally,
conditions that limit your mobility, such as arthritis, can indirectly cause
weight gain by reducing your ability to be active.
Solution: Talk with your doctor about how you can help manage your weight
while you’re being treated for your condition. Also, try to focus on eating as
healthy as possible, for the sake of your overall health.
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