20. Being Pregnant
Weight gain is one of the first signs of pregnancy. While many women experience plenty of other pregnancy symptoms before weight gain, packing on a few pounds is a sign that it may be time to take a pregnancy test. Normally, you should gain about 2 to 4 pounds during the first three months you’re pregnant, although pregnancy cravings may cause you to gain more weight, more quickly (17).
21. Getting Older
As you get older, your metabolism changes. Even if you follow the same diet and lifestyle as you transition from your 20s into your 30s or your 40s into your 50s, your basal metabolic rate (BMR) will be lower than when you were younger. Your basal metabolic rate is “…the minimum amount of energy you need to keep the basic functions going (such as liver and brain function and breathing)” (18).
Your age, gender, height, and weight influence your BMR. After the age of 25, your BMR slows 2 percent or more per decade (19). That means that you either have to eat fewer calories (at the risk of not getting all the nutrients your body needs) or increase your activity level. The more lean muscle mass you have, the higher your metabolism, so it really is worth living an active lifestyle.
Should you find yourself experiencing rapid weight gain, go through this list and try to identify what the cause may be. If the issue is related to a health problem or medication, discuss options with your doctor to address it. If your weight gain is due to environmental or personal factors, use some of the tips provided here to make a change.
You shouldn’t require a lifestyle overhaul: make small changes at first, then larger ones as you become more successful. You can do this!