Many people find that as they age their weight increases by a pound or two per year. It’s quite normal for this mild weight gain to take place, because a decreased metabolism is a natural sign of aging. However, there are a number of reasons that significant weight gain can be a sign of a potentially serious health concern. How do you know if your weight gain is serious enough to start taking steps to address it? You can determine the answer to this question by examining the following factors.
First, what do your genetics say about your weight? Take a look at the blood relatives in your family to see if your weight gain pattern is similar to theirs. If your body type doesn’t deviate that much from the people you’re related to, then you may have a genetic predisposition to gaining a certain amount of weight at a certain point in your life, and a disease process might not be responsible for your extra pounds. Even in that situation, however, if you feel uncomfortable with your weight, it’s still a good idea to be evaluated by a weight loss professional to see if some moderate changes in diet and exercise can help keep you looking and feeling your best.
Second, what is the pattern of your own weight gain? Has it been gradual and steady, or rapid and sudden? Gradual, steady weight gain is often indicative of what could be a more natural process of slowed-down metabolism, while rapid, sudden weight gain can be indicative of a health concern. Some of the conditions that can cause rapid weight gain include hypothyroidism, hormonal or electrolyte imbalances, tumors, Cushing’s syndrome, prediabetes, or the use of certain medications.
Third, what symptoms accompany the weight gain? It’s easy just to focus on the weight gain, as this can be the most obvious and most distressing thing you experience. But try paying attention to how you’re feeling as well. If there’s no overall change in your energy levels, mood, eating or sleeping patterns, your weight gain, especially if it’s minimal, might not be anything major to worry about. But if weight gain accompanies symptoms like increased fatigue, depression, difficulty concentrating or foggy thinking, increased or decreased appetite, sleeplessness, or aches and pains in your body, it is a good idea to have a medical evaluation.
If you are concerned that you’ve put on extra pounds, consider the factors above to see if your weight gain could be indicative of an underlying health condition. Consulting with a professional who specializes in addressing weight gain issues and can create a weight loss plan just for you is one of the best ways to meet your goals, so don’t be afraid to take that first step toward improving your health.
If your weight has become a concern, call Slim4Life or Make an appointment today!
