Maintaining an ideal weight is a common goal, but weight can sometimes fluctuate unexpectedly. While lifestyle is often a key factor, certain medical issues can also lead to sudden weight gain. Read on to explore some causes of sudden weight gain that you should be mindful of.

Causes of Sudden Weight Gain

Unanticipated weight gain can be frustrating, especially when you're working to maintain your weight. A gain of 2-3 kilos over a few days is considered normal, though it can still be unsettling.

Weight gain is often linked to lifestyle choices, but medical conditions can also be contributors. Here are some common causes:

Unhealthy Diet

If you've noticed unexpected weight gain, take a closer look at your daily diet. Consistently eating processed or sugary foods can lead to weight gain. Processed foods are packed with added sugars, preservatives, and unhealthy fats that may contribute to obesity.

Similarly, frequently consuming sugary items such as candies, sodas, and other sweet beverages can lead to weight gain that might go unnoticed.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A lifestyle with minimal physical activity—such as prolonged sitting, low movement, or spending hours watching TV—can increase the risk of weight gain and various chronic health issues. Symptoms associated with this include weight gain, increased waist circumference, and fatigue.

Insomnia

Insomnia or other sleep disorders can disrupt a person’s circadian rhythm, potentially leading to sudden weight gain. Sleep deprivation impacts appetite-regulating hormones and energy balance, contributing to weight gain.

Medication Side Effects

Weight gain can also result from certain medications. Drugs used to treat conditions like depression and bipolar disorder are known to cause weight gain in some people.

Medications for high blood pressure or insulin can have similar effects. If you experience weight gain while on these medications, it’s advisable to consult a doctor about alternative treatments.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, which can slow down metabolism and other body functions. Symptoms to watch for include weight gain, persistent fatigue, dry skin and hair, constipation, and sensitivity to cold.

Kidney Disorders

Unexpected weight gain along with swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet may signal kidney problems such as kidney failure or nephrotic syndrome.

The kidneys filter waste and fluids from the body, and damage to this function can make it harder to eliminate fluids, causing weight gain.

Heart Failure

Significant weight gain with swelling in certain body areas (edema) may be due to fluid retention. Reduced blood flow to and from the heart can affect other major organs, leading to fluid buildup in tissues and subsequent weight gain, particularly in the abdomen, ankles, and feet.

Other Medical Conditions

Beyond the reasons listed above, sudden weight gain can also be linked to other health concerns like:

• PCOS
• Cushing’s syndrome
• Stress and anxiety disorders
• Ovarian tumors

Weight gain can be influenced by a range of factors, from lifestyle habits to medical issues. Addressing rapid weight gain requires identifying the underlying cause, so if you're experiencing weight concerns, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended. You can also access the Ai Care app for virtual consultations, available on both the App Store and Play Store.

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