Why do I gain weight even though I don't eat much?
Disease description:
I usually don't eat much, but I've gained a lot of weight recently. Why do I still gain weight even though I don't eat much?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Weight gain is not solely determined by the amount of food consumed, but rather by the balance of energy. When energy intake exceeds energy expenditure, weight gain may occur regardless of the quantity of food consumed. Contributing factors include:
1. Eating habits: Consuming foods that are primarily high in calories, high in fat, or high in sugar may lead to weight gain even in small quantities.
2. Metabolic rate: Individuals have different basal metabolic rates; some people may store more energy as fat even when consuming less food due to a lower metabolic rate.
3. Lack of physical activity: Insufficient daily activity can result in the body burning fewer calories than it consumes, leading to weight gain.
4. Sleep quality: Poor sleep habits can affect hormone secretion, such as increasing levels of ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and decreasing satiety, indirectly promoting weight gain.
5. Genetic factors: If there is a family history of obesity, an individual's risk of gaining weight also increases.
Even with limited food intake, weight gain may still occur if these issues are present.
