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Reasons for Weight Gain in Women

Weight gain is a concern for many women. Being knowledgeable about the physical, emotional and medical reasons for weight gain can help a woman maintain a healthy weight throughout life.

  1. Menopause and Hypothyroidism

    • Menopause and hypothyroidism are two common reasons for weight gain in women. Hormonal changes in the body during menopause and when the thyroid gland becomes under active, lead to weight gain associated with these conditions. (See references 1 and 3)

    Emotional Reasons

    • Stress and depression often lead to weight gain in women. Prolonged stress causes the body to store fat and hold onto it. A woman who is depressed, along with being under stress, engages in less physical activity, which leads to weight gain. (See reference 2)

    Lifestyle

    • A sedentary lifestyle, along with excess calorie and carbohydrate consumption is often responsible for weight gain in women. (See reference 1)

    Diabetes and Insulin Resistance

    • Insulin resistance and type-2 diabetes are also reasons for weight gain in women. Controlling blood glucose levels, increasing physical activity and losing weight can counteract these conditions. (See resource)

    Considerations

    • Artificial sweeteners, while not containing sugar, can cause insulin resistance all the same and lead to weight gain. (See reference 2)

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