Clearly haven't eaten much, yet weight is skyrocketing

Despite not eating much, rapid weight gain may occur due to aging, lack of exercise, hypothyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Cushing's syndrome, and other factors. This can be improved through dietary adjustments, increased physical activity, and medical treatment. If weight increases sharply in a short time or is accompanied by fatigue, menstrual irregularities, etc., prompt medical attention is advised.

1. Aging: With increasing age, the body's basal metabolic rate declines. Even if food intake remains unchanged, excess calories are more likely to accumulate and convert into fat, leading to weight gain. It is recommended to adjust dietary habits by reducing high-fat and high-sugar foods, and incorporating low-intensity exercises such as walking or tai chi.

2. Lack of Exercise: Prolonged sitting and insufficient physical activity reduce calorie expenditure, causing excess energy to be stored as fat, thereby increasing body weight. It is recommended to engage in aerobic exercises such as jogging or swimming 3–5 times per week, lasting about 30 minutes each session.

3. Hypothyroidism: Insufficient secretion of thyroid hormones leads to reduced metabolic rate, resulting in fat accumulation and weight gain, often accompanied by symptoms such as fatigue, cold intolerance, and dry skin. Under medical guidance, medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, thyroid extract tablets, or Jinkui Shenqi Pills may be used to improve symptoms.

4. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Endocrine disorders cause insulin resistance, promoting fat accumulation and weight gain, along with menstrual irregularities, hirsutism, and acne. Under medical supervision, medications such as cyproterone acetate and ethinylestradiol tablets, metformin hydrochloride tablets, or spironolactone tablets may be prescribed to manage symptoms.

5. Cushing's Syndrome: Excessive secretion of glucocorticoids by the adrenal cortex promotes fat deposition, leading to weight gain—particularly central obesity—along with a "moon face," purple striae on the skin, and other signs. Medications such as mifepristone tablets, ketoconazole capsules, or metyrapone tablets should be taken as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.

Daily care should include maintaining regular sleep patterns and avoiding late nights, choosing light and easily digestible foods, engaging in moderate daily exercise to promote calorie expenditure, and maintaining a positive mood to support stable metabolism.