Most adult women at one time or another
have struggled with their weight, and recent research suggests that weight
gain in women differs from that of men.
There are many reasons why women put
on the pounds and some of the factors that lead to weight gain in women are
surprising. Here are a list of 11 causes for weight gain that specifically
affects the female population.
1. Pregnancy
Women are required to gain weight during
pregnancy. However, many women consume too many calories when they are
expecting. Guided by the idea of "eating for two," many women overeat
and gain more weight than is recommended by the medical community. A healthy
woman with an average body weight should eat an extra 300 calories.
2. Menopause
During menopause, the hormonal changes may
cause an increase in appetite and lead to weight gain. Your changing
body composition may also make it more difficult to lose any excess
weight.
3. Not Eating Enough
Studies indicate that more than 50% of the
population of women are dieting at any given time. Yet, the quest to lose
weight often can do more harm than good. A reason why many women gain weight is
because they don't eat enough. When you aren't consuming enough food,
the metabolism slows down and the body begins to store fat.
4. Eating "Low-Fat" Foods
Female dieters may be seduced by packages
with the words "low-fat" printed on them. However, these low-fat
foods often contain as many calories as normal food items.
5. Lack of Fiber
The popularity of low-carb diets such as
Atkins have caused fiber deficiencies among dieters. Fiber is essential to
losing and maintaining a healthy weight. Not only does fiber promote bowel health,
it also gives you a feeling of fullness which helps you to eat less.
6. Too Much Stress
The demands of having a career and managing
a family may cause many women to pack on the pounds. Stress causes the body go
into crisis mode. As a result, the body begins to slow down and store fat.
7. Lack of Sleep
When you're sleep deprived, your body can't
work to its best ability. The body's reacts to a lack of sleep by storing fat.
8. Depression
Many women engage in what is called
"emotional eating." This is a response to depression and an attempt
to fill a void in your life through food. Comfort foods such as chocolate and
other sweets may soothe the soul, but they expand the waistline.
9. Lack of Fatty Acids
Not all fats are bad for you. Fatty acids
like those contained in flaxseed oil help you to maintain your metabolism and
curb unhealthy food cravings.
10. Diseases and Illness
There are a number
of diseases and illness that can cause weight gain. Ovarian
cysts can cause a woman to gain up to 15 kilos over a short period of
time. Problems with the liver, kidneys and heart can be associated
with weight gain. Also, women who undergo breastcancer treatments often
experience a fluctuation in weight.
11. Birth Control
When you begin taking a new birth control
pill, you may notice an increase in your weight. Weight gain is a common side
effect for most contraceptives.
If you are suddenly gaining weight for what
seems to be no reason, consider the above 11 factors.
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