Explain the Gain

Eight possible reasons why you’re overweight.

Around the world, nearly 2 billion people are overweight, and an overwhelming two out of every three Americans over the age of 20 are overweight, with one out of three considered obese. Since 1980, the number of obese people in the world has almost doubled. What’s going on?

Even though people have known for years they should eat less and move more to maintain a healthy weight, obesity statistics continue to rise. The reason you and millions of others struggle with weight may be more than just failing to count calories. Besides the fact that people eat too much and don’t exercise, here are eight other possible explanations provided by Austin Fit Body Boot Camp for the global girth growth.

#1: Medications

When it comes to pills, it’s a win-lose situation. You’re taking medication for one medical condition and it’s causing negative side effects. One such side effect may be weight gain. If you’re taking drugs such as steroids, beta-blockers for your heart, birth control pills, anti-seizure medications, hormone therapy, breast cancer drugs, migraine treatments, or heartburn medications, you may notice your clothes don’t fit like they used to. If the weight gain is troublesome and you can’t keep it under control, ask your physician about other medication options.

#2: Aging

As you get older, your metabolism slows down and your muscle mass decreases. These two factors mean your body no longer burns as many calories as it used to.  A personal trainer in Austin says this is the remedy: exercise more (especially the weight-bearing kind) and eat slightly fewer calories.

#3: Depression

There are several reasons why depression can lead to weight gain. First, a side effect of many anti-depressant drugs is weight gain. Second, you may overeat or choose comfort foods when you’re feeling blue. Third, you just don’t feel like exercising. Depression and weight gain can be a vicious cycle. You eat too much because you’re depressed and you’re depressed because you ate too much. Seek professional help if you experience feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or helplessness that affect your quality of life.

#4: Lack of Sleep

Not getting the recommended seven and a half hours of sleep each night messes with your mood, energy level, and yes—your waistline. Sleep is needed to help regulate your metabolism and the hormones responsible for appetite. In addition, you’re more likely to overeat when you’re tired. One study showed sleep-deprived people ate an average of 300 more calories a day than those who got a good night’s rest, so it’s a good idea to turn in early tonight.

#5: Slow Digestion

The longer food stays around in your gut, the more weight you gain. This doesn’t mean you should take unnecessary laxatives, but it does mean you need to stay regular. If your bowel movements are few and far between it may be due to dehydration, a lack of fiber in your diet, medication side effects, or an imbalance of bacteria. Talk with your doctor about the best way to relieve constipation.

#6: Diet Sodas

You think you’re safe by choosing diet soda over regular, but the opposite may be true. Yes, it may be low in sugar and calories, but the artificial sweeteners used in diet drinks mess with your blood sugar and insulin levels. One popular study found that the waistlines of those who consumed two or more diet sodas a day was six times bigger than those who avoid diet drinks. Austin fitness center believes that water and unsweetened tea are the healthiest drink options.

#7: Chemicals

Researchers are looking into the possible health dangers of phthalates, chemicals that give plastics their flexibility and help dissolve materials. They’re likely found around your house in toys, raincoats, detergent, plastic shopping bags, vinyl flooring, and cosmetics. Known to disrupt hormonal balance and associated with obesity, these chemicals may play a role in why people are overweight. Do your own research and take appropriate steps to limit your exposure.

#8: Stress

Long-term negative stress increases your body’s production of cortisol (the stress hormone) and insulin and increases your appetite. Stress and overeating often go hand in hand since food can be a comfort, distraction, and a way to relax. Learn healthy ways of managing the stress in your life and your waist may reap the benefits.

“For the first time ever, overweight people outnumber average people in America. Doesn’t that make overweight the average then? Last month you were fat, now you’re average – hey, let’s get a pizza!”—Jay Leno

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