We say that someone has gained weight rapidly when they have put on calories in a short period of time. It is a popular assumption in our society that rapid weight gain is a result of overeating and lack of exercise. In some cases this is true but contrary to this popular notion some people gain weight because of other causes rather than overeating.
The society at large is advocating for weight management as a way of healthy living. It is therefore vital to know the reasons behind rapid weight gain and how to handle it.
Rapid weight gain is mostly health related and notably it is a symptom of some diseases. It can also be caused by psychological reasons. The other causes of rapid weight gain are highlighted below.
1. Menopause
The change in the normal working of hormones like estrogen and progesterone in a woman can lead to a rapid increase in weight. Hormones have a big influence on our metabolic rate and fat storage and as a result any change in their normal functioning causes a change in these two processes which ultimately affect our weight. It is therefore not unusual to see rapid weight gain in women undergoing menopause.
2. Hypothyroidism
Deficiency of the thyroid hormone which is responsible for metabolism activities in our bodies is another common cause. This deficiency causes low metabolic rate which leads to increase in weight.
3. Drugs prescribed by a doctor
Any drug taken that affects our hormones can cause a change in our body weight. Some oral prescription drugs will affect hormones responsible for metabolism for example estrogen and this leads to rapid weight gain.
Other common causes of rapid weight gain include kidney and heart ailments which cause the body to retain fluids and lead to weight gain. Blood sugar imbalances and Cushing’s syndrome are other ailments that may cause rapid weight gain.