Weird Reasons You're Gaining Weight

Weight gain you can't control

The frustration of seeing extra pounds on the scale or of a too-tight waistband that you know used to fit is understandable. But did you know that anything from a hormonal imbalance to vitamin deficiencies to the prescription meds you take can hold clues to what's making you gain weight? "A lot of people make what we think are lifestyle choices but are actually our bodies reacting to factors we can't control
Here, seven health issues that could be standing between you and your ideal weight and how to fix them.

1)You're depressed:

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.

If you're not taking pills, there’s evidence that feelings of depression can correlate to weight gain. One 2012 study published in the Journal of Public Health found that people who feel sad and lonely gain weight more quickly than those who report fewer depression-related symptoms. "They may be eating more high-fat, high-calorie comfort foods.

Fix it: "If I see patients who are taking anti-depressants and that could be the culprit of their weight gain, I may wean them slowly off of the drug." If your meds are not to blame, 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)wrong Rx:

There's a long list of medications that can cause weight gain: If you're taking birth control pills, excess hormones for hormone therapy, steroids, beta-blockers for heart disease and blood pressure, anti-seizure meds, breast cancer medications like Tamoxifen, some treatments for rheumatoid arthritis, and even some migraine and heartburn medications, you may notice pounds creeping on.

"When I see patients who are concerned about weight gain, I start looking at their medications."That's a biggie. Some may affect appetite; some may affect metabolism." Others may simply make you feel better and thus regain your lost appetite.

Fix it:
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)Your gut is slow:

Digestive issues, including slow bowel movements, may also account for excess pounds. "Ideally, you eat, and then, an hour or so later, you have a bowel movement."But once or twice a day is still in the healthy range." If you're not so regular, dehydration, medications, low fiber, or even a lack of good flora in your gut could be to blame.

Fix it:
If constipation is your only symptom, then trying probiotics can help your digestive tract work properly. Staying hydrated is 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)Your body's missing certain nutrients:

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. "You may compensate for low energy with caffeine, sweets, and simple carbs."Or find that you feel too run down or weak to exercise."

Fix it:
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. "If you take too much, you can get kidney stones. You need to have your blood tested every three months, so your doctor can make adjustments to the dose for you." Adding an iron supplement is a little less tricky 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)You have plantar fasciitis:

"Many musculoskeletal conditions, including plantar fasciitis, but also osteoarthritis and knee or hip pain, can result in unintentional weight gain. "Plantar fasciitis certainly can force you to cut back on your activity enough to cause weight gain."

Fix it:
Modify your exercise program to swap biking or swimming in place of weight-bearing exercise. Seek out a physical therapist who can design an appropriate program for your specific needs ask your doctor or check out the American Physical Therapy Association to find a qualified therapist in your area.