Metabolism and Weight Gain: People eat healthy and avoid fast food, yet their weight still increases. Let us explain the reasons behind this.

Why does weight increase despite a healthy diet?

Why Am I Gaining Weight On A Healthy Diet: You're eating healthy, avoiding junk food, and staying active, yet your weight is still increasing. The question that arises in our minds is, why does this happen? This question troubles many people these days. It often feels like, despite all our efforts, our bodies aren't cooperating. It often feels like, despite all our efforts, our bodies aren't cooperating. body's complex metabolic process that's at play.

Experts explain that the body often adapts to new circumstances. When a calorie deficit is maintained for a long period of time, the body begins to conserve energy. This is called metabolic adaptation. This means the body burns fewer calories than before. Consequently, the same diet that previously helped with weight loss may now lead to weight gain or even stagnation.

Insulin resistance is also a major cause.

Insulin resistance can also be a major factor. Insulin not only regulates blood sugar but also regulates fat storage in the body. When the body becomes insensitive to insulin, insulin levels rise, and the body begins to store fat instead of burning it. This condition can occur even in people who maintain a completely healthy diet.

What do experts say?

Dr. Moinuddin told TOI that another important role is played by the hormone leptin, which signals the brain that the stomach is full. However, when the body develops leptin resistance, this signal doesn't work properly. As a result, a person may begin to eat more than they need without realizing it, which gradually leads to weight gain. Hormonal imbalances can also be a major factor in weight gain. For example, hypothyroidism slows metabolism, PCOS affects fat storage in women, and elevated cortisol in Cushing's syndrome causes fat accumulation in the body. All of these conditions can facilitate weight gain.

Even eating healthy can lead to weight gain.

We often forget that even healthy foods can lead to weight gain if consumed in excess. Dried fruits, fruits, whole grains, and smoothies are nutritious, but they are also high in calories. If consumed excessively, the body begins to store excess energy as fat. Not just food, but lifestyle also plays a significant role in this. Conditions like poor sleep, excessive stress, and inflammation in the body affect metabolism. Lack of sleep activates appetite-stimulating hormones, while stress increases cortisol, which contributes to weight gain.