Here is my list of top culprits:
1. Getting less than 6 or more than 8 hours of
sleep
Researchers have found that getting between
6 -8 hours of sleep is essential in achieving weight loss when coupled with
reduced energy intake i.e. reduced portion sizes. They found that poor sleep
increases hunger and reduces the burning of fat as an energy source.
2. Undiagnosed hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism (low thyroid function) can
go undetected for years masquerading as other illnesses.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weight
gain, depression, thickened facial skin, and fatigue. Hormone levels
(specifically TSH) that are low or sub normal can indicate hypothyroidism or sub
threshold hypothyroidism.
Once thyroid hormone levels have returned
to normal weight is often lost.
3. Undiagnosed food sensitivities
Food sensitivities such as those
to wheat, gluten or dairy products can cause weight gain. This weight is often lost once sensitivities
are determined and dietary changes have been made.
4. Long term stress
Our natural long term stress
hormone cortisol encourages central weight gain i.e. the accumulation of fat on
the hips and abdomen. Improving sleep, regular exercise and a diet high in
anti-inflammatory foods can reduce cortisol levels and help reduce weight.
5. Medications that promote weight gain such
as corticosteroids
Synthetic corticosteroids used in the
treatment of inflammatory disease such as arthritis and asthma have the same
effects as the body’s natural long term stress hormone cortisol, and can cause
weight gain. Antipsychotics, antihistamines and some antidepressant medications
can also cause weight gain.
6. Oestrogen production
As women approach menopause oestrogen
production starts to decline and lean muscle starts being exchanged for adipose
(fat) tissue. Body fat produces oestrogen
and this ‘fat exchange’ is the body’s way of increasing oestrogen levels. For
this reason (as well as others) it is important to maintain muscle mass as you
age.
For more comprehensive guidance
on improving your health with nutrition contact Shona Wilkinson at Nutrition Workshop.
