That scale of yours are faulty. It keeps on showing bigger numbers by the week and I’m not even going to tell you how that washing machine keeps on filling up with hot water for some reason. Now all your clothes have shrunk as well. I wish the above was true in all cases but weight gain creeps in and all of sudden we are 10kgs (22lbs) overweight.

Weight gain have many reasons why it can occur. From eating more to being less active, there’s a lot of reasons why weight gain can happen. I will be discussing three of in detail and name some more in bullet form, at the bottom of this article.

Eating more

This one happens to most of us, especially over the festive season that have just come to an end. We eat more cookies, drink more sugary drinks and although we are more active because we are spending the holidays on the beach and swimming (in South Africa), it’s far too little to even start cancelling out the abundance of food and sugar you are consuming. Even if the weight loss have not happen over the festive season but over a longer period, there is a way to reverse the gain. Many people count calories and this work great but for some this can become very obsessive and tiring because you need to log everything you eat and drink. When you think about counting calories, all that you are doing is reducing your portions sizes with each meal or snack. So if counting calories are daunting to you, then just make sure that you cut your portion sizes, reducing sugar intake by reading those labels on food. Instead of cereal, choose oats for example. Also, make sure you eat more veggies and fruit. Cook your meals instead of buying the ready made meals or processed foods because they are laden with fats (unhealthy oils) and high content of sugar. I know we are all busy but this is not only for reversing or maintaining your weight but also for your future. A healthy (insert name).

Being less active

This topic is one that so many people do not want to even hear or read about but do you know that being active, is not only for reversing or maintaining your weight?

My clients will tell you that the outcome of exercise, are not just for the weight loss but also for reasons like getting stronger, fit, mobility and flexibility. When you lack exercise (especially weight training) in your life, your body tends to be weak, full of aches and pains as well as immobility. You are stiff and feel lethargic. Start moving today, not just for the weight loss or maintenance but also for the health benefits of it, towards your body. Exercise can even make that bowls of your move again …

Medications

Before you stop taking whatever medication you are taking at the moment, please consult your doctor first.

Medication can also be the culprit in slowing down the process of losing weight and even in some cases, the side effects of medicine can be weight gain. But please do not stop taking your medications just because you suspect weight gain or of what you read on the pamphlet. Consult your doctor first before stopping your medications.

Other causes of weight gain: insomnia, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), heart failure, kidney problems, thyroid disorder, cancer.

Written by: Marleen Swart