Unintentional weight gain can often be due to age-related physical changes, underlying diseases, side effects of medicines. Weight gain is not always caused by overeating or less exercise.
Some people have a very low diet, yet their weight continues to increase. In such a situation, the question arises whether there is any serious disease behind this? Let us tell you about those diseases in which weight starts increasing even without eating much.
Why does weight start increasing suddenly?
According to Harvard Health (2023), unintentional weight gain can often be caused by age-related physical changes, underlying diseases, side effects of medicines, or changes in gut bacteria (microbiome). Weight gain is not always caused by overeating or less exercise. According to Dr. Sanjay Gupta, an endocrinologist at Fortis Hospital, Delhi, weight gain does not depend only on the amount of calories. Due to hormonal imbalance, lack of sleep and tension, the body's metabolism is affected, which can lead to weight gain.
Weight increases due to these diseases
Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. This condition slows down the metabolism, which leads to weight gain. Due to this, fatigue and weakness are felt. Also, weight starts increasing suddenly. Apart from this, problems like dryness in the skin, hair loss, inability to tolerate cold, muscle pain and stiffness in the joints also occur.
Dr. Rita Sharma, Thyroid Expert at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai, says that timely diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism is necessary. Weight can be controlled with thyroid hormone replacement therapy, but medicine should not be taken without consulting a doctor.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder caused by excessive production of male hormones (androgens) in the ovaries of women. PCOS increases insulin resistance, which increases the risk of weight gain.
Cushing's Syndrome: Cushing's syndrome occurs when the level of cortisol hormone (stress hormone) in the body increases abnormally. This condition can be caused by long-term use of steroid medications or a tumor in the adrenal gland.
Depression and Anxiety: Mental health problems such as depression and anxiety can affect appetite and eating habits. People suffering from depression are often attracted to 'comfort foods', which are high in calories and low in nutrients.
Sleep Deprivation and Stress: Lack of sleep and stress increases the level of cortisol, which leads to increased hunger and slows down metabolism. People who sleep less than 6 hours a night have this problem more.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you must consult the concerned expert.
You may also like
'Will turn you straight': Indian gay man in Canada faces deportation, says he's already receiving homophobic messages on social media
Cameron Norrie explains why he doesn't want to play on Centre Court at Wimbledon
Relief for commercial vehicles: Up to 50% reduction in toll for elevated sections on NHs
M60 traffic LIVE: Major incident shuts UK motorway with police at scene
Chelsea can build Enzo Maresca's dream squad with £98m swoop before Bayer Leverkusen friendly