You step onto the scale, only to let out a yelp. You’ve gained 3lb in a week!

How is that possible? You’ve been doing your best, eating right and going for regular walks. You chalk it off to the scale being “broken” and ask your neighbor if you can borrow theirs. But when the same numbers pop up in front of you, you can’t help but wonder what’s going on.

The truth is, even if we exercise daily and eat right, our weight fluctuates. But if you keep gaining weight no matter what you do, there might be something else going on.

Here are a couple of reasons you could be gaining weight:

You’re Not Getting Enough Sleep

When you’re not getting enough sleep, your body’s hormone levels slowly start changing. The biochemical changes in your body affect your mood and make you hungrier. That’s why a lot of people struggle with eating late at night because they don’t get enough sleep.

You’re Stressed Out

Stress is enemy number one when it comes to weight gain. While a lot of people lose weight when they’re stressed out, some people tend to eat more.

This is because food gives us comfort. But it’s also because the levels of the cortisol hormone in our body increase. Cortisol is also known as the “stress hormone,” and also increases our appetite.

Different people react differently to stress. Some people eat more and some people sleep more. If you sleep more, you’re also likely to binge eat, because your body will try to fuel up.

Antidepressants

One of the side effects of antidepressants is weight gain. If you’re taking antidepressants, this could be one of the reasons why you’re gaining weight.

Depression causes changes in weight as well. Your weight fluctuates when you’re stressed out or depressed. When antidepressants start working, your appetite improves as well.

For this, it’s better to consult your psychiatrist. They will be equipped to tell you what your next step should be. 

Cushing’s Syndrome

Individuals who have Cushing’s Syndrome experience an increase in cortisol levels. Your body will start producing more cortisol. But this can also happen if you take steroids or asthma pills. 

Hypothyroidism

An underactive thyroid gland can lead to weight gain, fatigue, feeling cold, and various other problems. It’s best to get your thyroid checked to see if you have hypothyroidism.

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