Yasmin weight gain

Differences, similarities, and which one is better for you

If you are a woman of child-bearing age, you may have been met with several options when looking to prevent pregnancy. There are several contraceptive pills out on the market. Of these, Yaz and Yasmin are two combined oral contraceptives (COCs) that have some similarities and differences. Depending on your medical history and your overall health, one contraceptive pill may be better than the others.

Both Yaz and Yasmin are manufactured by Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals and contain ethinyl estradiol, an estrogen, and drospirenone, a synthetic form of progestin. The combination of these two hormones prevents ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries) while producing changes in the vagina and uterus. These changes include making the vaginal mucus thicker to prevent sperm from entering the uterus.

Other brand-name drugs that contain ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone include Gianvi, Syeda, Nikki, and Zarah.

What are the main differences between Yaz and Yasmin?

Yaz (Yaz coupons) contains 0.02 mg of ethinyl estradiol and 3 mg of drospirenone. It is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prevent pregnancy. It can also treat depression and mood symptoms from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) as well as moderate acne in women 14 years of age and older. In a blister pack, there are 21 active pills and 7 inactive, or placebo, pills.

Yasmin (Yasmin coupons) contains 0.03 mg of ethinyl estradiol and 3 mg of drospirenone. Unlike Yaz, Yasmin is only indicated to prevent pregnancy. In one blister pack, there are 24 active pills and 4 placebo pills.

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Conditions treated by Yaz and Yasmin

Both Yaz and Yasmin prevent pregnancy in women. In addition to contraception, Yaz (What is Yaz?) can treat symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in women who would like to use birth control. Yaz can also treat moderate acne in women 14 years of age and older.

Use the following table to compare the approved medical uses and off-label uses of Yaz and Yasmin.

Is Yaz or Yasmin more effective?

Both Yaz and Yasmin have been shown to be effective in preventing pregnancy in women who don’t use any other contraception.

In a primary study to test the efficacy of Yaz, the pregnancy rate was 1 out of 100 women per year. This study evaluated over a thousand participants who collectively completed over ten thousand 28-day cycles. The study included a diversified group of women and lasted for 1 year.

In the studies evaluating the efficacy of Yasmin (What is Yasmin?), pregnancy rates were less than 1 per 100 women in a year. One study, for example, showed a pregnancy rate of 0.407 which indicates a high efficacy. All efficacy studies had a duration of up to 2 years and included over two thousand participants who collectively completed over thirty thousand 28-day cycles.

Coverage and cost comparison of Yaz vs. Yasmin

Yaz is a brand name drug and may or may not be covered depending on your insurance plan. The average retail cost of brand name Yaz is $157 for a 28-day supply.

Loryna, Kyra and Nikki are generic equivalents of Yaz that have the same ingredients and may cost around $85. With a SingleCare coupon, you can reduce this cost and expect to pay around $25.

Yasmin is also a brand name drug and may or may not be covered depending on your insurance plan. Yasmin can cost around $150 for a 28-day supply. Ocella, Syeda, and Zarah are generic equivalents of Yasmin that contain identical ingredients in the same strength. Ocella costs around $72. If you use a SingleCare Yasmin coupon, you may be able to save more on this drug.

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Side effects of Yaz vs.

Yasmin

Yaz and Yasmin share some similar side effects such as headaches or migraines, nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness, and mood changes. Other side effects of Yaz include menstrual changes, irritability, decreased libido (sex drive), and weight gain. Other side effects of Yasmin include premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and stomach pain or discomfort.

Yaz and Yasmin can also cause serious side effects such as blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. Blood clots can also cause other serious events such as thromboembolisms where the clots become lodged in a blood vessel. Thromboembolisms can include a pulmonary embolism (PE) in the lungs or a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the legs.

High blood pressure, gallbladder problems, and liver disease are other adverse effects that may occur from contraceptive pills. These effects can be life-threatening. Talk to your doctor if you already have high blood pressure, clotting problems, or a history of liver tumors before starting birth control.

While women on Yaz or Yasmin have an increased risk of blood clots, medical experts don’t suggest immediately stopping their use. The risk is still relatively low according to one report from CMAJ. However, the risk is still there which has led some countries like France to pull coverage for the pill.

Source: DailyMed (Yaz), DailyMed (Yasmin)

Drug interactions of Yaz vs. Yasmin

Yaz and Yasmin interact with the same types of drugs. Herbal products or drugs that affect the liver enzymes, especially the CYP3A4 enzyme, can have an effect on contraceptive pills. Drugs like phenytoin and carbamazepine induce the CYP3A4 enzyme and decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. Inhibitors of the CYP3A4 enzyme such as ketoconazole and diltiazem can increase the level of Yaz or Yasmin in the body.

Other medications used to treat HIV can also affect the levels of estrogen and progestin in the body. These levels can change how effective the contraceptive pill is. Although antibiotics have been reported to affect oral contraceptives, it is still debated whether antibiotics have a significant impact on oral contraceptives. Most healthcare professionals still recommend using a backup contraceptive method if you are prescribed an antibiotic.

Warnings of Yaz vs. Yasmin

Because both Yaz and Yasmin contain drospirenone, they come with a higher risk of blood clots which can lead to cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. Women over 35 years old who smoke should not use Yaz or Yasmin. Smoking cigarettes has been shown to increase the risk of blood clots and adverse effects when using combined oral contraceptives.

Yaz and Yasmin contain drospirenone, which can increase the potassium levels in the body. These pills can increase the risk of hyperkalemia, or higher than normal potassium. Therefore, potassium levels should be monitored in women who are also taking other medications that might increase potassium.

Women with a past medical history of breast cancer, high blood pressure, liver or kidney problems, diabetes, and high cholesterol should consult a doctor before starting Yaz or Yasmin. Taking combined oral contraceptives may worsen these problems or increase the risk of serious side effects.

Yaz or Yasmin should not be used in pregnant women or those women who suspect they’re pregnant. If you suspect you are pregnant while taking oral contraceptives, you should discontinue their use.

Frequently asked questions about Yaz vs. Yasmin

What is Yaz?

Yaz is a combination oral contraceptive (COC) pill. It contains 0.02 mg of ethinyl estradiol and 3 mg of drospirenone. Yaz not only prevents pregnancy but also treats premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and acne in women aged 14 years and older.

What is Yasmin?

Yasmin is similar to Yaz and contains the same ingredients. However, it contains 0.03 mg of ethinyl estradiol and 3 mg of drospirenone. Yasmin is solely used to prevent pregnancy in women of child-bearing age.

Are Yaz and Yasmin the same?

Yaz and Yasmin contain ethinyl estradiol and drospirenone. But they are not the same drug. Yasmin contains a slightly higher amount of ethinyl estradiol compared to Yaz. They also have different uses and side effects.

Is Yaz or Yasmin better?

Yas and Yasmin are both effective at preventing pregnancy. Based on efficacy studies, only around 1 out of 100 women per year get pregnant when taking Yaz or Yasmin. However, some women may prefer one over the other based on the side effects they might experience.

Does Yaz cause weight gain?

Yes. Yaz may cause weight gain in some women. Based on a trial in women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), around 2.5% of those taking Yaz experienced weight gain. This side effect may be enough for some women to choose a different contraceptive pill.

Does Yasmin cause weight gain?

Weight gain has not been shown to be a common side effect of Yasmin. Although weight changes may be a side effect of birth control pills in general, you likely won’t gain weight with Yasmin. Consult a doctor if you have had weight problems in the past.

Can Birth Control Make You Gain Weight? What You Need To Know

Medically reviewed by Sophia Yen, MD, MPH – Written by Pandia Health Editorial Team. Updated on November 10, 2022

Is there a Best Birth Control for Weight Loss?

Birth control pills won’t decrease appetite or improve a woman’s metabolism. However, some birth control pills (those with drosperinone) can have a slight diuretic effect, which decreases water retention in women who would otherwise retain water or bloat. We’ve also seen hormones give women the munchies. But each person is different. Often the more androgenic progestins will give women the munchies. The shot, aka Depo-provera, is known to give those who use it the munchies.

Millions of women in the U.S. take hormonal birth control to prevent unintended pregnancy and alleviate adverse health conditions and side effects. Know that there are 40 different types of birth control pills, and every woman will respond differently to each one. For hormonal contraceptive methods, there are a few birth control side effects that women need to be aware of before starting the pill, such as water retention, and bloating.

What are the Different Types of Hormonal Birth Control that Can Potentially Cause Weight Gain?

Non-hormonal birth control methods will not affect someone’s weight. But some hormonal contraceptives can cause side effects.

irth control pills
Hormonal IUDs
Birth control patches (Twirla, Xulane)
Birth control shots
Birth Control vaginal rings (Annovera, Nuvaring, EluRing)
Birth control Implant

Often the more androgenic progestins will give those with uteri the munchies but it depends on the dosage of the progestin in the method and each person with a uterus responds differently to different dosages.

The shot, aka Depo-provera, is known to give some of those who use it the munchies.

Copper IUDs and barrier methods will not cause weight gain/loss side effects.

What is the Primary Reason Birth Control Causes Weight Gain?

Research has shown that if you put 100 people on the birth control pill and 100 people not on the pill and follow their weight, the 100 people on the pill, on average, weigh 1 pound less. This is because those on the pill do not bloat up and down and those NOT on the pill do (so they average 1 pound more over the month).

In some cases, birth control can cause water retention, which increases the number on the scale and also gives the appearance of excess weight. In some cases though, birth control pills can also increase appetite and cause a woman to consume excess calories, leading to weight gain. If birth control pills are causing water retention, stopping the pills will reverse this side effect and lead to weight loss. If your pill is giving you the munchies, talk to your doctor to switch to a less androgenic progestin.

Which Types of Birth Control are Responsible for Weight Gain Side Effects?

Birth control pills prevent ovulation and trick the body into thinking it is already pregnant. Excess estrogen in birth control pills is the primary vehicle for preventing ovulation and making the body think it has already conceived. But estrogen can cause the body to retain water which can give the illusion of weight gain.

Water retention occurs when renin-angiotensin, a compound that the kidneys create, is stimulated via excess estrogen circulating throughout the body. The higher the amount of estrogen in a birth control pill, the more water a woman might retain while taking the pill.

Most birth control pills contain between 30 and 35 micrograms of estrogen. Those pills with higher estrogen will promote higher levels of water retention than pills with lower levels.

Some birth control pills, like Yaz or Yasmin, contain drospirenone, a progestin. Drospirenone acts as a diuretic and can help decrease bloating However, women who have a history of blood clots, high blood pressure, adrenal disease, or take NSAIDS frequently should not take a birth control pill with drospirenone.

It’s also important to note that individual differences will account for weight gain when taking birth control. Some women are more prone to water retention than others, and birth control can worsen this natural tendency.

The shot, aka Depo-provera, is known to give some of those who use it the munchies. The birth control shot lasts 3 months and once it is in you, we can’t take it out. We have to wait for it to wear off.

Different Causes of Weight Gain

The myth that birth control can make you gain weight is just that, a myth! Yet, despite this misconception, many people avoid taking hormonal birth control because they don’t want to experience any negative weight changes or an increase in body weight. Birth control pills will not decrease your appetite or improve your metabolism. Lifestyle factors can also affect your weight, so we recommend eating unhealthy things you may crave in moderation rather than consuming them in unlimited quantities. Also, exercising regularly may reduce weight gain or promote weight loss if you wish to lose weight.

The research proves that hormonal birth control improves women’s health regardless of weight changes. However, there are 40 types of birth control pills and you can’t know in advance how each one will affect your body. The best determinant of what will work for you is genetics. Thus, we suggest asking your mother, aunt, and older sister what works for them. Also, Pandia Health has come up with an algorithm based on age, BMI, race as a proxy for genetics, and your health history to minimize side effects.

How to treat weight gain on birth control

Talk to your doctor

Ask your doctor for a lower androgenic effect of progestin.

A Healthier Diet

Hormonal contraceptives can change your overall shape and body composition. Some people using progesterone-containing birth control can feel hungrier than usual. We understand; it is difficult to make wise choices when our hormone levels are causing us to crave junk food. However, we often gain weight unintentionally when we overindulge in junk food, which is more difficult to lose than fluid retention. Sugar and salt are the two main cravings you may experience when your progesterone levels rise. Unfortunately, sugary foods can cause us to gain weight quickly and easily; salty foods can cause us to retain fluid (causing the scale to appear as if we have gained weight). Changing your diet may help you lose weight and improve your overall health.

It gets better with time

Almost all medicines have side effects, and hormonal birth control is no exception. Your body will adjust to your new hormone levels after three months of consistently using your birth control. You might experience some minor symptoms during this time; however, the degree to which you are affected will vary from person to person. Weight variation often occurs during the introductory period, when a person may gain or lose weight. However, the weight gain is often bloating and fluid retention rather than a change in body fat. Most people stop experiencing symptoms after three months; however, if you experience continued symptoms, consult your doctor to see if you would be better off using a different birth control method.

Working out

We recommend regular exercise, which can help you lose weight and release endorphins, which will improve your mood. Regardless of what you do, as long as you enjoy it and can do it consistently, it doesn’t matter! We recommend you consult a doctor if you are experiencing significant weight gain and have already changed your diet and exercise routine. A change in weight like this may be due to an underlying health issue. For example, thyroid disorders and diabetes can cause sudden, unexplained weight gain.

What types of birth control stimulate appetite?

The shot, aka depo-provera, is most famous for giving users the munchies.

Some birth control pills can cause women to feel hungrier than usual, which can lead to excess calorie consumption and weight gain. Unlike water retention, this type of weight gain is much harder to get rid of and is more permanent. It can be incredibly hard to make smart diet choices when a person is experiencing cravings for calorie-dense foods thanks to hormones.

Certain birth control pills or the birth control shot can increase insulin levels. High levels of insulin cause any calories obtained from carbohydrates to be converted into fat cells. Women who already have abnormal glucose metabolism are at high risk of experiencing this side effect.

The types of hormonal birth control that are the biggest culprits for appetite stimulation are pills with higher levels of estrogen and those with higher androgenic effect progesterones. For women who do experience weight gain on the pill, the average weight gained is 4.4 pounds within 12 months on a progestin-only pill.

Also, if a woman experiences significant weight gain after taking the pill, birth control isn’t necessarily to blame. It’s possible that another health issue is causing weight gain, and it’s crucial that women speak to their doctor if this happens. Thyroid disorders and diabetes can cause sudden, unexplained weight gain.

Can Birth Control Promote Weight Loss?

There are no scientific studies that have proven a link between birth control and weight loss. There are some birth control pills with a diuretic effect, such as Yaz/Yasmin, this means that the pill will make you pee more and if you are prone to water retention, you might lose some water weight on them.

Best Birth Control Pill for Weight Loss

Unfortunately, there’s no scientific proof that birth control pills cause weight loss. The birth control pills Yaz and Yasmin, however, contain a hormone called drospirenone. This hormone acts as a diuretic, so some users may experience less water retention than other birth control options or may lose a few pounds. The best thing you can do for your weight is to follow the advice above and keep those period munchies under control.

Best birth control to avoid weight gain

Do you want to start taking birth control? Not sure which birth control to use if you don't want to gain weight? Get started with Pandia Health today! Our expert birth control doctors will choose the best hormonal birth control for you based on your needs and health history!

Pandia Health offers free shipping for your refills and deliver it directly to your door! This way, you can get your birth control quickly and conveniently.

How to Prevent Gaining Weight on Birth Control?

Women who are concerned about water retention, bloating, and weight gain while on birth control, should steer clear of birth control shots and high-dose estrogen (50mcg or more) containing birth control pills. There are 8 different progestins and Pandia Health’s doctors have been trained how to choose the best pill for each person based on their age, BMI, race as a proxy for genetics, and your health history. A woman may need to try a few different types of pills before finding one that works for her lifestyle and physiology. If you do not like the side effects of hormonal birth control and may need to stick with barrier methods or use a non-hormonal IUD.

The Depo-Provera shot is the hormonal birth control that commonly has the side effect of weight gain. With this method, you also need to go to the doctor every 12 weeks for another shot. If you are someone who wants a more “set it and forget it” option, the implant or an IUD may be a better option for you.

If you’re curious about hormonal birth control pills that do not cause water retention, it’s important to speak to an experienced doctor to explore your contraceptive options. Pandia Health’s doctors are trained to help you find the best birth control pill/patch/ring for you.

We want women to feel #PandiaEmpowered, not feeling down about themselves because of the stress of the idea of weight gain can cause. Birth control is liberating, and we encourage you to own your sexual health and wellness.

While weight gain may cause stress, the benefits of birth control are plentiful. With birth control, you can make your #PeriodsOptional and you decrease your chances of an unexpected pregnancy if you are sexually active. Birth control should give you peace of mind and Pandia Health is here to help with that!

Takeaways

Educating yourself on birth control’s potential side effects and distinguishing fact from fiction is critical. It is a common misconception that hormonal birth control causes permanent weight gain; this is not true. Some women may gain weight, but this will likely disappear after a few months as their body adjusts to the new medication.

Pandia Health offers expert birth control doctor consultations for those concerned about weight gain or who have gained weight despite eating well and exercising. Our goal is to ensure that birth control gives you peace of mind, so our doctors are here to help you find the best birth control option for you.

Frequently Asked Questions about Weight Gain and Birth Control

Why does hormonal birth control cause weight gain?

TL;DR: Research shows that the standard dose birth control pill does not cause weight gain.
However, each person responds differently to progestins and some people may get the munchies with certain progestins. Talk to your doctor if you are gaining weight after starting birth control. Pandia Health’s expert doctors have been trained how to minimize side effects on birth control pills by choosing the best pill for you.
Most birth control pills contain between 30 and 35 micrograms of estrogen. High dose estrogen pills (50mcg or more) can cause higher levels of water retention than pills with lower levels of estrogen.

Why do you gain weight on birth control?

The most common reason: water retention but oftentimes your body adjusts and it goes away. That said, some birth control (especially the birth control shot) can increase your appetite which leads to consuming extra calories—thus causing weight gain.

How to get rid of water retention from birth control?

For women concerned with water retention from weight gain, they can try low-dose estrogen pills and steer clear of birth control shots. Everyone's body is different, so it may take trying a few different types of birth control to find the best fit.

How to prevent gaining weight on birth control?

Research has shown that birth control pills do not make you gain weight. However, each person is different and responds differently to medications. So if you notice weight gain on birth control talk to your doctor. Pandia Health’s expert doctors are trained how to minimize the risk of side effects and how to customize their recommendation based on your age, BMI, race as a proxy for genetics, and health history.
Eating a balanced diet (watch your snacks and munchies!) can help with preventing gaining weight on birth control.

How much weight can you gain on birth control?

For women who do experience weight gain on the pill, the average weight gained is 4.4 pounds within 12 months on a progestin-only pill. For the shot, some say 1%/month for some people?

Disclaimer: The above information is for general informational purposes only and is NOT a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor/primary care provider before starting or changing treatment.

Is there a Best Birth Control for Weight Loss?

What are the Different Types of Hormonal Birth Control that Can Potentially Cause Weight Gain?

Non-hormonal birth control methods will not affect someone’s weight. But some hormonal contraceptives can cause side effects.

irth control pills
Hormonal IUDs
Birth control patches (Twirla, Xulane)
Birth control shots
Birth Control vaginal rings (Annovera, Nuvaring, EluRing)
Birth control Implant

The shot, aka Depo-provera, is known to give some of those who use it the munchies.

Copper IUDs and barrier methods will not cause weight gain/loss side effects.

What is the Primary Reason Birth Control Causes Weight Gain?

Which Types of Birth Control are Responsible for Weight Gain Side Effects?

Most birth control pills contain between 30 and 35 micrograms of estrogen. Those pills with higher estrogen will promote higher levels of water retention than pills with lower levels.

Different Causes of Weight Gain

How to treat weight gain on birth control

Talk to your doctor

Ask your doctor for a lower androgenic effect of progestin.

A Healthier Diet

It gets better with time

Working out

What types of birth control stimulate appetite?

The shot, aka depo-provera, is most famous for giving users the munchies.

Can Birth Control Promote Weight Loss?

Best Birth Control Pill for Weight Loss

Best birth control to avoid weight gain

Pandia Health offers free shipping for your refills and deliver it directly to your door! This way, you can get your birth control quickly and conveniently.

How to Prevent Gaining Weight on Birth Control?

Takeaways

Frequently Asked Questions about Weight Gain and Birth Control

Why does hormonal birth control cause weight gain?

Why do you gain weight on birth control?

How to get rid of water retention from birth control?

How to prevent gaining weight on birth control?

How much weight can you gain on birth control?

For women who do experience weight gain on the pill, the average weight gained is 4.4 pounds within 12 months on a progestin-only pill. For the shot, some say 1%/month for some people?

non-obvious causes of weight gain and what to do about it

Sometimes kilograms are gained regardless of how you eat and how much time you spend in the gym. Here are a few factors that explain why women gain weight. Attached are tips on how to deal with it.

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weight loss

Nutrition

Proper nutrition

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We are used to the fact that the scales can show different numbers in the morning and in the evening. Therefore, we love to weigh ourselves after waking up - to admire a smaller value. We eat, drink a lot of fluids, and fluctuations within two kilograms during the day are considered the norm. And they have nothing to do with fat mass gain. But it also happens that the weight begins not to fluctuate, but to grow rapidly, and we cannot understand why this happens. And in the morning, the arrow of the scales already ceases to please . ..

Of course, overeating and the abuse of fast carbohydrates against the background of low physical activity are obvious reasons that affect the parameters of the figure. But why sometimes weight grows with proper nutrition? It turns out that unexpected factors that we are not accustomed to associate with food and full sides can contribute to an increase in the waist. Meanwhile, there is a connection, and we will talk about it.

Why weight is growing rapidly

Some time ago, your favorite trousers were easy to fasten, but today they can barely reach the hips. Common situation? According to the Master of Health, MD, American nutritionist Kathleen Zelman, in some cases, weight gain in people turns out to be sharp. Although many “catch” changes when five kilograms are already added to their own norm. And this fact can lead women into a state of horror. Zelman explains why weight often goes up even when you're in a calorie deficit.

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1. You don't get enough sleep

If you haven't slept for one or two nights, it's okay. But when you do it all the time, don't be surprised later why the weight grows, including on a diet. Yes, you may be trying to limit yourself to certain foods. But proper rest is also part of the process of losing weight. The link between lack of sleep and weight gain has already been proven, and it is direct. You are more awake and you eat more. In addition, the body does not have time to recover in a short night, circadian rhythms are disrupted, and with them the metabolism and production of the hormones ghrelin (I want to eat) and leptin (controls satiety).

What to do: set a sleep schedule, go to bed and get up at the same time (no later than 11 p.m.). Imagine - even on weekends! Turn off gadgets at least an hour before bedtime and stop eating 2-3 hours before bed. Don't drink coffee in the evenings.

2. You're stressed

You're just "a little" nervous, and for some reason, the weight immediately increases dramatically. The situation is frequent and very offensive. But the ability to deal with negativity will give you many health benefits. Elevated levels of cortisol contribute to the fact that stress becomes chronic, the result is extra pounds (hair loss and other “side effects”). The body is forced to switch to an emergency mode of operation, and it needs additional energy. Cortisol also affects circadian rhythms.

What to do: learn to meditate, breathe deeply, slowly count to 20, or do something else to deal with stress. And don't forget about sleep!

3. You are depressed

If you are taking antidepressants, the answer to the question of why the weight is growing rapidly lies on the surface. Many of these drugs help to gain excess. Depression itself also does not protect the figure: many try to seize bad feelings.

What to do: look for support in sports or turn to friends who will help you get distracted. Talk to your doctor about a different treatment plan.

4. You are taking the wrong medication

Some birth control pills, other hormones, steroids, beta-blockers cause weight gain because they affect appetite or metabolism. By the way, we wrote in detail about why weight grows before and during menstruation. This problem is due to fluid retention in the body and a number of other reasons.

What to do: together with a specialist, choose other drugs without such side effects.

5. Intestinal bacteria work poorly

Many girls do not understand why weight increases even during physical exertion. They do not forget to move, and the waist is literally spreading before our eyes. The fault may be disturbed intestinal flora. For example, after a course of antibiotics or eating a lot of sweets. Alas, this is also the way to increase the mass.

What to do: take probiotics, drink more water, eat healthy food, including fermented milk products while taking the medicine. If nothing helps, see a doctor.

6. Not enough nutrients

Nutritionists are often asked why intermittent fasting puts on weight - after all, you have to go without food for at least 16 hours! In this case, the body may experience low levels of magnesium, iron or vitamin D, which interferes with its normal functioning and slows down metabolism. Many people try to increase their energy levels with caffeine, sweets, and simple carbohydrates, making up for those hours allotted for meals.

What to do: eat red meat and spinach to increase iron levels, nuts - magnesium, but vitamin D should be taken separately in the right dosage.

7. You're getting older

On the forums you can often "hear" the cry of the soul: "Why is the weight growing, but I eat the same?". In some cases, age is the explanation. Metabolism slows down over the years (every decade). The “aging effect” is slowly changing our body composition, reducing calorie-burning muscle and replacing it with fat.

But it happens a little differently. The reasons for weight gain are that most adults gradually become less active, but continue to eat as much as they did in their 20s. Appetite does not go anywhere and plays a bad joke on the background of the aging of the body.

What to do: you need to exercise and eat a little less to stay at your favorite weight. Find exercises that work for you, eat more vegetables, and remember to drink water.

8. You eat at night

For some reason, at night, many people are unbearably hungry, hunger is drawn to the refrigerator, and weight at this time also does not sleep and grows. Studies show that eating at night is harmful. In fact, you consume calories that the body does not need. In addition, at the end of the wakeful period, food is digested more slowly.

What to do: try to have lunch as the main meal and never skip breakfast, which consists of proteins and slow carbohydrates.

9. You go in for sports

Most of all, girls worry and ask the question: “I go in for sports, but for some reason my weight is growing. How so? We agree that this is unfair. But with the start of classes, the need for calories increases, and we eat more. Muscle mass begins to come from training in tone, but fat is still not going anywhere. That is why the volumes do not go away, but rather grow, and with them the weight.

Also, don't panic if the numbers jump up. It's just that muscle mass is heavier than fat. Knowing why weight grows when playing sports, just stop paying attention to the scales. Look in the mirror, don't weigh yourself.

What to do: normalize nutrition, introduce more fiber and protein, remove sweets and starchy foods. If you really want to, why not allow yourself a "prohibition", but not after an evening workout, when the weight grows the most, but from 12 to 15 hours. And then - once every 10 days! This unloads the brain, helps not to get hung up and does not harm the figure.

Measures against weight gain

The best option than to prevent the problem, and not get out of it, has not yet been invented. In order not to have to solve the difficult task of why weight grows even when losing weight, try to follow simple rules.

Adjust your diet so that it barely covers the energy needs of the body. Do not allow overeating, justifying yourself with a festive occasion. To please yourself with a delicious treat on Saturday - yes. Stuffing your stomach until you stop breathing - no.
The diet should contain proteins, fats, carbohydrates, fiber, essential minerals and nutrients. Keep it as low as possible for food waste like buns, soda, and chips.
Move for at least 40 minutes every day. If you're gaining weight while exercising due to muscle building, why not start with walking and active housework. And then you get to serious loads.
Get rid of negative emotions and thoughts by swimming, communicating with loved ones, reading books and watching good films. Take your pet for a walk and play with him, combining positive pastime and physical activity.
Allow yourself sweets if you have a sweet tooth. Many are perplexed: “I eat few goodies, but for some reason the weight is growing and growing!”. But they can be consumed in the afternoon, and the serving size can be underestimated. Kathleen Zelman suggests storing 100-calorie berries in the freezer to control calories and volume.
Contact specialists for the prevention of various diseases, including the thyroid gland. Failures in its work are fraught with weight gain. In addition, weight also grows when a joyful event occurs - pregnancy, and it is clear why. Not only the fetus increases, but also the volume of blood and intercellular fluid.

Photo: Polina Tankilevitch, Andrea Piacquadio, Liza Summer: Pexels

5 common causes and what to do about them

Weight gain during menstruation is a common thing. Many people face this problem. On the one hand, this is completely normal. On the other hand, it is not very pleasant when the usual clothes literally stop fastening. Why do we get fat every month and can something be done about it so as not to gain weight?

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Menstruation

premenstrual syndrome

Signs of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) are well known to many - these are chest pains, and bloating, and that same weight gain. There is nothing pleasant in waking up in the morning and, besides the periods themselves, finding out that you no longer fit into jeans. Literally overnight! This is due to the fact that the body retains fluid more strongly, you swell, and these edema give you those very 1-2 extra pounds.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

How much weight gain during menstruation is normal?

There are no clear criteria, but most women gain 0.5-3 kg. These extra pounds are distributed in different ways. Someone notices that they are evenly distributed throughout the body, someone sees that they accumulate in the abdomen or, for example, the upper arms.

The weight change itself usually occurs at the very beginning of menstruation, often even before spotting occurs.

And although this symptom is considered typical, not everyone experiences it. And this means that if weight gain (like other signs of PMS) bothers you a lot, then the best option is not to try folk remedies, but to see a doctor. It is likely that you need to correct something in the body. In addition, lifestyle changes can also play a role.

So, here are 5 reasons why you gain weight during your period.

Hormones

The level of hormones in the body is constantly changing, depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle, they can be either higher or lower. If estrogen is elevated, this can cause the body to become more fluid-retaining. If for some reason the estrogen in your body is already higher than normal, then the tendency to edema will be higher. Progesterone also plays a role, against the background of an increase in its concentration, weight can also increase due to water retention.

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You eat too much

When menstruation starts, we often eat too much. Our appetite drives us to eat tons of food (and we're not talking about broccoli at all). Often we lean on sweet and salty, as a result we get the expected effect. From the sweet, the weight begins to grow almost before our eyes, and the salty provokes the accumulation of fluid even more.

In general, this can be a little tricky, but try not to overeat ice cream and chips. Instead, eat yogurt and other protein foods. Do you want something sweet? Fruit will help. It's hard, but real.

You don't exercise

During menstruation, many people put off exercising until later. Of course, if the bleeding is very strong, then there can be no talk of playing sports. However, in general, menstruation is not an obstacle to playing sports.

Firstly, it will help to remove excess water. Secondly, it promotes the production of endorphins - the hormone of pleasure, which will also have a positive effect on your well-being - not only physical, but also emotional.

You have digestive problems

Due to hormonal changes in your body, you may experience digestive problems. And constipation is one of them. An increase in the concentration of progesterone is to blame here, due to which the intestinal walls begin to contract worse than usual.

As a result, in addition to the usual edema, there is also the severity associated with the fact that you cannot go to the toilet normally. Taking probiotics will help solve or at least alleviate the problem - both in the form of additional complexes (check with your doctor) and as a food component (yogurt and sauerkraut will do here).

You drink too much coffee

Coffee has become an accessory to office life and the salvation of business people who are always suffering from lack of sleep. But an excess of caffeine in the body can cause bloating, discomfort, and weight gain.

By the way, coffee is not the only drink that contains caffeine. Tea is also in this company. If you want to consume less caffeine, here is a list of caffeine-free drinks that you should pay attention to.

Is gaining weight during your period a bad thing?

Weight gain during menstruation is a normal variant. In most cases, this is just water that will soon leave the body, you only need to endure 3-4 days, a maximum of a week.

The following tips will help speed up elimination.

Drink more water.
Move more.
Take magnesium (check with your doctor).
Eat less salt.

Don't be upset if the weight has increased - it happens to almost everyone, and you can only minimize its increase, but most likely it will not be possible to avoid this completely.

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