Weight gain

An increase in body mass over time, typically reflecting a positive energy balance with accumulation of adipose tissue, lean mass, or body fluid.

Causes

• Physiological causes

  • Normal growth

  • Pregnancy (gestation)

  • Puberty

  • Menstrual-cycle-related changes

  • Menopause

• Caloric and lifestyle causes

  • Excess caloric intake

  • Reduced physical activity

  • Sedentary lifestyle

  • Chronic stress

  • Sleep deprivation or insomnia

  • Smoking cessation

• Endocrine and metabolic causes

  • Hypothyroidism

  • Cushing's syndrome

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

  • Insulin resistance and other metabolic disorders

• Fluid-retention

  • Heart failure

  • Kidney failure

  • Other conditions causing edema or sodium and water retention

• Medications increasing appetite, altering metabolism, or causing fluid retention

  • Corticosteroids

  • Antidepressants

  • Antipsychotics

  • Insulin

  • β-blockers