Not eating more, but weight gain is happening, here is why

Written by: Deepa

8 September 2025

Have you been puzzled or confused by why your weight seems to increase? You have not changed your diet but the scale seems to be creeping up? 

Photo Credit: Freepik

Nutritionist Mamta Sharma says, "Sometimes weight gain is your body’s SOS — a call to look at sleep,  stress, and metabolism, not just calories."

Photo Credit: Freepik

Let's investigate where this unexplained weight gain may stem from hidden health reasons. 

Photo Credit: Freepik

Thyroid problems, PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome), insulin resistance- hormones directly/indirectly impacting metabolism and fat storage may lead to weight gain even without excessive caloric overload.

Hormonal imbalances

Photo Credit: Freepik

Constant stress has led to elevated cortisol, a consequence of heavy water retention and resulting fat storage mostly around the belly. Managing stress however is an important piece to maintaining healthy weight.

Stress & Cortisol

Photo Credit: Freepik

Specific medications can often lead to an unexpected weight surge or gain as a side effect, it they be antidepressants, steroids or diabetes medications.

Medications

Photo Credit: Freepik

Poor sleep can impact appetite based hormones that manage hunger, namely ghrelin and leptin that signal your body to store fat, even when you do not consume additional calories.

Sleep Deprivation

Photo Credit: Freepik

When you notice sudden weight gain, it isn't always because you're consuming too much food. There can be many other factors, such as hormones, sleep, stress, or medication, causing sudden weight gain. If you notice sudden weight gain, please consult your doctor to help identify the root cause and stay healthy.

Final Takeaway

Photo Credit: Freepik

Tap on that love ❤️ button. Stay tuned for what’s coming next!

Video Credit: Tata 1mg

If you found this helpful,

Arrow