Often associated with poor eating habits, weight gain may result from other factors, such as diseases of which obesity is a symptom, or from the effects of certain physiological changes at particular times in life. It is also important to note that while weight gain may have many adverse health effects, it may be necessary and desirable in some situations. The update on the possible causes of sudden or unexplained weight gain, the solutions and tips to be put into practice to fight overweight or to get out of underweight.
Why do we weight gain at certain times in life?
While weight gain is often the result of poor hygiene, it may also be due to unavoidable changes in the body at certain times in life. Indeed, with age, the reasons for sudden, rapid and significant weight gain may be due to symptoms or physical and psychological changes related to key stages in a person’s life.
Weight gain during pregnancy
During pregnancy, weight gain is normal and desirable in order to ensure the good health of the mother and the proper development of her baby. Doctors check the weight of the pregnant woman at each prenatal consultation in order to assess the progress of the pregnancy. Although gaining weight during pregnancy is normal and unavoidable, it is still important to watch your diet. Gaining too much weight during pregnancy can be dangerous for both mother and child, and conversely, not gaining weight or losing weight during that particular period can have negative consequences for both. It is therefore necessary to consume a certain amount of calories in order for the body to build up sufficient energy reserves. A healthy weight gain during pregnancy is between 11 and 16 kilos.
Weight gain during menopause
After a certain age, the basic metabolism slows down, which promotes sudden and uncontrolled weight gain. From the premenopause onwards, the woman suffers a major hormonal imbalance that causes her enormous stress and a great malaise that can lead to depression. Decreased levels of estrogen and progesterone during this period promote significant weight gain. Menopause is accompanied by physical and psychological symptoms that are difficult to manage and can predispose women to eating impulses in order to compensate for hormonal disarray and temporary depression.
Although it is normal to gain weight during menopause, it is important to take care of yourself by maintaining healthy lifestyles so as not to increase the risk of age-related diseases. It is advisable to eat properly and to avoid physical inactivity by practicing regular exercise. Treatment may be prescribed by a doctor to rebalance hormones and combat rapid weight gain.
Unexplained weight gain and disease
Factors in weight gain may be related to health problems or diseases. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor if unexplained weight gain occurs.
Why is being overweight dangerous for your health?
Being overweight poses considerable health dangers. In addition to tarnishing a person's quality of life, excess weight can predispose to many health problems such as:
The risks of cardiovascular diseases;
Hypercholesterolemia;
High blood pressure;
Diabetes;
Infertility;
Complications during pregnancy;
Joint problems;
Respiratory problems;
Urinary disorders.
Sport to lose weight and stay in shape
In order to avoid the dangers associated with being overweight and to maintain a harmonious figure, it is necessary to fight against excess weight. The first solution to avoid and eliminate excess pounds is to practice regular physical activity. Indeed, sport helps balance caloric intake and energy expenditure in order to burn fat and prevent it from accumulating in the body.
To stay in shape, it is recommended to schedule 30 minutes of physical activity 3 times a week. Endurance sports and cardio are particularly effective for shedding excess pounds. Running, cycling or even jumping rope are perfectly suited to losing weight or avoiding gaining weight. Gentle sports such as walking, swimming or yoga are also recommended to maintain a healthy weight and an attractive figure.
A balanced diet to avoid gaining weight
To avoid gaining weight, it is advisable to adopt good food hygiene. Indeed, extra pounds, if they are not the result of health problems, are mainly due to poor eating habits.
A healthy, varied and balanced diet is recommended to combat excess weight. It is advisable to limit the consumption of overly salty foods such as cold meats and appetizer biscuits. Fast sugars should also be avoided as much as possible. Fresh vegetables and fruits, plant proteins, lean meats, low-fat dairy products and foods rich in fiber are preferred. It is also recommended to hydrate well by drinking at least 1.5 liters of water per day.
Comments