It can be frustrating to step on the scale and see the number go up. If this continues for several weeks, you may begin to wonder where the extra weight is coming from. Obviously, eating junk food or eating too many calories compared to calories burned can cause weight gain. However, there are some reasons that are less obvious. Let's take a closer look at five reasons you’re gaining weight:

Stress

Long-term stress can boost hunger levels. While you may not realize it, you could be eating more than you were before. Stress can cause an increase in cortisol. Cortisol can wreak havoc on your insulin levels and cause blood sugar levels to drop. Thus, you’re more likely to crave sugary, fatty, carb-filled foods. Take the necessary steps to deal with stress so that you can regain your healthy eating habits. Try: Yoga or meditation

Medication and Illness

Unfortunately, there are times when weight gain is out of our control. You may need certain medications that can cause weight gain. There are also illnesses, such as Fibromyalgia, that can cause weight gain. This is disheartening but having a good relationship with your doctor and expressing your concerns can help you work together to try different medications and meal plans until you find something that helps you maintain your weight.

Sleep Patterns

There's never enough time in the day. That's why many people skimp on sleep. If you get a couple hours, you’re good to go, right? Wrong. Not getting enough sleep can alter your hormones and cause your body to crave foods that are high in calories and carbs. Adults need between 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night. There are things that will alter how much sleep you need, such as pregnancy and illness. Make sure the 7 to 9 hours you get are quality hours. If you're waking up several times a night, you’re not getting a good night's rest. Try: A hybrid mattress or aromatherapy diffuser

Eating Too Late in the Day

Chances are you’ve heard that eating after 6PM can cause weight gain. For some people, that’s unavoidable. Some people work shifts that require late night eating. What may be more beneficial is to make sure you’re doing intermittent fasting. The 16:8 plan, for example, says that you fast for 16 hours and eat only during an 8-hour window. If you’re seeing weight gain, you may not be giving your body enough time between your last and first meals.

Not Eating Enough

This is a shocker to so many people, but not eating enough can actually cause you to gain weight. When you’re not eating enough calories for your body’s needs, your body will begin to store fat. In other words, you can be working out every day but still gaining weight. Do the math and make sure you’re eating enough calories for your body and lifestyle. It can be frustrating to gain weight when you know you’re not eating junk food. There are a number of reasons why this can occur. Stress, lack of sleep, and even not eating enough calories can lead to weight gain. Take care of yourself and your body will take care of you. Subscribe to A Girl’s Gotta Spa! beauty blog. Watch our reviews on YouTube, see our pins on Pinterest and check us out on Instagram. Got a Kindle? We’re on Kindle too! Or check out our natural bath and body line!