Gained weight suddenly? 5 unimaginable reasons and how to fix them

Weight gain and obesity, as we all know, is a silent killer, and also the prime cause behind many lifestyle ailments, including heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes etc. For those who have struggled with weight issues all their life, losing even a little amount of weight can feel like a personal win, and is a culmination of months (or even years) of hard work, and dedication. Hence, a sudden weight gain can not only be demoralising, but also rattle your self-confidence. Here are some reasons you might be gaining weight suddenly...

We all know that consuming excess salt can increase your blood pressure, but not many know that it can also contribute to sudden weight gain. Excessive salt consumption can lead to water retention and bloating, that can increase your weight, and that too suddenly. If you are used to taking a little more salt in your diet, bring down its consumption slowly. You should also drink a lot of water to prevent water retention. Finally, stay clear of processed food, that is unusually high in salt.

If you have been tracking your calories, and still find yourself putting on weight, then chances are that you have been consuming calories not accounted for. This can include some snacking, (such as dry fruits, 1-2 biscuits, some salted chips etc) that you thought of as too miniscule to account for. However, these calories add up, and can overshoot your calorie consumption of the day. Do not snack unhealthy, and keep track of what you are eating between meals (even if it is healthy.)

Potassium deficiency can indeed contribute to weight gain by disrupting the body's ability to maintain fluid balance. Potassium plays a vital role in muscle function, including the heart and digestive system. Low potassium levels can occur due to certain medications, medical conditions, or a diet that lacks potassium-rich foods. Symptoms of potassium deficiency include fatigue, muscle weakness, and bloating.

Have you been reaching out for an extra chapati, or a bowl of rice lately, even though you have been eating healthy otherwise, and even exercising? While carbs in itself do not cause weight gain, an excess of it does. Almost all doctors all over the world advise everyone to go easy on carbs (but no need to cut out completely), and include more protein, lean meats, good probiotics, and vegetables in your diet. Portion control is the key.

If you have suddenly lost weight, especially after a rigorous diet regime, then some weight gain is expected, especially if you have been on a calorie deficit diet all these months. To avoid a drastic surge (any gain beyond 2-3 kgs), stick to your weight loss diet, coupled with an occasional cheat meal, here and there. Also to avoid this situation, make healthy eating a lifestyle, and not something you do for weight loss.