5 Reasons Why You're Gaining Weight

It can be really discouraging when you’re working hard in the gym, sticking to your diet, and all of a sudden start seeing the scale go UP! What gives?! 

There are SO many variables involved in your training and diet so there could be any number of reasons you’re seeing the scale go up despite your best efforts. First and foremost, it’s important to realize that 1 to 2 pounds is likely nothing to worry about!

Such small fluctuations are likely not caused by any “mistake” made by you but rather your body’s response to slight fluctuations in certain day to day factors. 

Let’s go over a couple reasons you could be seeing the scale go up:

1. Water and sodium intake. 

Your body tries to maintain a balance between water and sodium. When one of the two is way out of wack, it looks for ways to restore the balance. If your body has too much water, it will increase urine output, for example.

The weight problem occurs, however, when you have too little water to sodium in the body. When this happens, your body looks for ways to hold onto water to maintain the balance. If you’re drinking your usual amount of water but consuming a relatively larger amount of sodium heavy food, you will see an increase in weight due to the water retention that’s occurring to restore your sodium/water balance. 

2. Your menstrual cycle

Periods can absolutely cause temporary weight gain! Before you freak out, note that I said TEMPORARY! Your period causes fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, which play a role in water retention in your body. When these hormones go down in preparation for your period, your body holds onto more water!

Hormone changes during your menstrual cycle also cause your appetite to increase so be mindful that you aren’t overeating! This can lead to “real” weight gain. 

3. Digestion Issues

If you’re having digestion issues, you might also see the number on the scale increase. Monitor your bowel movements! Do you have a bowel movement each day? If not, the weight gain is likely from your body holding onto excess waste.

Make sure you’re consuming enough water as this will help to regulate your digestive processes. It’s also important that you’re giving your body enough fiber! Fiber is an indigestible carb that pushes waste through your body. You should be consuming about 15 g of fiber for every 1,000 calories in your diet.

If you’re still struggling to have a bowel movement, I suggest trying an epsom salt bath, which can also help to get things moving as gently as possible. 

4. Inconsistency in training and cardio

Ultimately, weight gain and weight loss occur strictly because of calories consumed and calories burned. If you’re burning less than you’re consuming you gain weight.

Have you been sticking to a strict routine with your diet and training or does it vary from week to week? If you’re skipping cardio sessions or training varies, you’re likely burning less and eating more!

If you’re seeing serious weight gain (more than a couple pounds), this is the culprit. You need to develop a more consistent routine and adjust your cardio and training frequency to ensure you are burning adequate calories for weight maintenance or loss. 

5. Stress

Have you been feeling extra stressed lately? Life stress can actually cause your cortisol levels to rise which can lead to weight gain.

Higher cortisol leads to heightened sugar and fatty food cravings. In general, your overall appetite will be heightened. To manage this, ensure you’re getting adequate sleep, taking time to do things you enjoy, and managing your time properly.

Keeping stress levels down will help you tremendously when it comes to improving your overall physical fitness and wellbeing.

Are you struggling with the scale?

Are you feeling discouraged about your weight loss progress because you feel like you’re moving backwards? My customized training and nutrition programs are designed to take the guess work out of effective, sustainable weight loss.

If you’re struggling to reach your goal weight, APPLY HERE for a customized training and nutrition program tailored to your body, time commitment, likes, and dislikes.

Once your application is received, if I believe you’re a good fit for this program, I will reach out with information regarding packages, pricing, and what to expect as we work to achieve a healthier, happier you. I can’t wait to help you finally achieve the body of your dreams!