5 Reasons You May Be Gaining Weight
Author: Oksana Aron, MD Source: Weight Loss NYC Jan 18, 2023It’s not willpower
People do not become obese because they lack willpower. Obesity is a complex problem. It involves genetic factors, lack of physical activity, increased caloric consumption, some metabolic abnormalities, appetite regulation problems, and eating disorders, emotional and cultural factors. Overeating, a diet high in simple carbohydrates, slow metabolism, certain medications, psychological factors, and some medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism and many other. Research suggests that overweight people seem to have more fat cells than normal weight individuals. When people gain weight fat cells increase in size until a maximum fat content per cell is achieved. Weight loss can occur if the fat content per cell is reduced.
The reasons people gain weight are varied and complex. In order to be successful in weight loss, it is helpful to understand why.
Genetics
Genetics can play a role in weight gain. Your genetic makeup can influence how much you weigh, as well as how easily you gain or lose weight. Certain genes can also make it more difficult to make healthy food choices.
Physical Inactivity
Physical inactivity is one of the most significant factors contributing to weight gain. Without regular physical activity, our bodies don’t burn enough calories to keep up with what we consume.
Diet
Diet plays an important role in weight gain. Eating too much (especially of calorie-dense, high-fat, and high-sugar foods) can cause you to take in more calories than you need, leading to weight gain.
Metabolic Issues
Issues with the metabolism can also contribute to weight gain. Some metabolic processes, such as thyroid function, can influence how many calories you burn. When these processes are disrupted, it can lead to weight gain.
Appetite Regulation
Problems with appetite regulation contribute to many of the above. Medical weight loss addresses this most effectively.
One treatment, Phentermine, is a prescription drug that is often used as part of a medically supervised weight loss program. It is an appetite suppressant that works by altering the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. It is often used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise routine in order to help individuals lose weight.
For those who are overweight or obese and have not been able to lose weight through diet and exercise alone, phentermine may be a useful tool in their weight loss journey. It is important to note that it should be used only under the direct supervision of a doctor. The doctor should monitor the patient’s progress and make any adjustments to the dosage
Labels: dieting, emotional eating, motivation, weight loss success