What causes weight gain in the human body

Body weight gain may be caused by overeating, lack of exercise, metabolic abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, and other reasons.

1. Overeating

Long term intake of calories exceeding the body's consumption needs is the main cause of weight gain. High sugar and high-fat foods such as fried foods and desserts can easily lead to excess calories, while refined carbohydrates such as white rice and noodles are quickly digested and absorbed, which may promote fat accumulation. Bad eating habits such as overeating or eating at night can also disrupt energy balance.

2. Lack of exercise

Modern people's sedentary lifestyle significantly reduces calorie expenditure. Lack of aerobic exercise and strength training can lead to a decrease in muscle mass and a decrease in basal metabolic rate. Even with a constant diet, insufficient exercise can convert excess calories into fat stored in areas such as the waist, abdomen, and buttocks.

3. Metabolic abnormalities

Metabolic diseases such as hypothyroidism can slow down energy expenditure efficiency. As age increases, the natural metabolic rate of the human body decreases every year, and without adjusting diet and exercise habits, it is easy to gain weight. Some drugs, such as hormone drugs, may also interfere with normal metabolic processes.

4. Hormonal imbalance

Insulin resistance can increase the efficiency of converting blood sugar into fat. Long term elevated levels of the stress hormone cortisol may lead to central obesity. Changes in estrogen levels during menopause in women can alter fat distribution, while a decrease in testosterone levels in men can also affect body fat percentage.

5. Genetic factors

Family history of obesity may affect the number and distribution of adipocytes through genes. Certain genetic diseases such as Prader Willi syndrome can directly lead to pathological obesity. Genes also determine individual sensitivity to food temptation and differences in exercise consumption efficiency.

Weight control requires establishing long-term healthy habits. It is recommended to maintain a balanced diet structure, increase intake of vegetables, fruits, and high-quality protein, and reduce refined sugar and saturated fat. Perform moderate aerobic exercise combined with strength training every week to ensure adequate sleep and manage stress levels. For suspected pathological obesity or sustained abnormal weight gain, timely medical examination of thyroid function, hormone levels, and other indicators should be sought to exclude potential disease factors. Weight management is a systematic engineering that requires collaborative interventions from multiple aspects such as diet, exercise, and psychology.