Swollen joints that cause pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility? You might be suffering from arthritis. Having this condition can be due to different factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, age, genetics, weight gain, etc.
In this article, we’ll take a look at how arthritis and weight gain are connected and how we can manage both conditions holistically!
How Arthritis Leads to Weight Gain
1. Reduced Physical Activity
One of the primary ways arthritis can lead to weight gain is through decreased physical activity. The pain and stiffness associated with arthritis can make it difficult to engage in regular exercise, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle.
- Limited Mobility: Joint pain and stiffness can restrict movement, making it challenging to participate in physical activities that burn calories.
- Avoiding Physical Activity: Many people with arthritis avoid exercise altogether to prevent pain, further reducing their overall activity levels.
2. Metabolic Changes
Arthritis can also lead to metabolic changes that promote weight gain.
- Inflammation: Chronic inflammation associated with arthritis can alter the body’s metabolism, making it easier to gain weight.
- Medications: Some medications used to treat arthritis, such as corticosteroids, can increase appetite and lead to weight gain.
3. Emotional Eating
The psychological impact of living with a chronic condition like arthritis can have a mental and emotional influence which contributes to weight gain.
- Stress and Depression: Arthritis can lead to increased stress and depression, which may result in emotional eating or seeking comfort in high-calorie, unhealthy foods.
- Isolation: Social isolation due to limited mobility can also lead to overeating as a way to cope with feelings of loneliness or boredom.
Specific Causes of Weight Gain When You Have Arthritis
1. Pain Management Strategies
Many people with arthritis use pain management that can unintentionally cause weight gain.
- Sedentary Pain Relief: Using rest and avoiding movement to manage pain can reduce calorie expenditure, leading to weight gain.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Some pain relief medications can have side effects, including weight gain.
2. Dietary Choices
Arthritis can influence dietary habits in ways that promote weight gain.
- Convenience Food: Limited mobility may lead to a reliance on convenience food that is often high in calories, fats, and sugars.
- Comfort Food: Seeking comfort in high-calorie food to manage pain and emotional distress can increase calorie intake.
3. Muscle Loss
Arthritis can lead to muscle atrophy due to inactivity.
- Reduced Muscle Mass: Muscle loss decreases the body’s metabolic rate, making it easier to gain weight even with a normal calorie intake.
Simple Ways to Manage Weight Gain with Arthritis
1. Low-Impact Exercise
Engaging in low-impact exercises can help manage weight without exacerbating arthritis symptoms.
- Swimming: Provides a full-body workout without putting stress on the joints.
- Walking: Gentle walking can help burn calories and improve joint mobility.
- Yoga and Stretching: Helps maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness.
2. Healthy Eating Habits
Adopting a balanced diet can help manage weight gain associated with arthritis.
- Anti-Inflammatory Food: Incorporate foods that reduce inflammation, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fatty fish.
- Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating.
3. Medication Management
Work with your healthcare experts to manage medications effectively.
- Alternative Therapies: Explore alternative pain management therapies that may have fewer side effects related to weight gain.
- Regular Monitoring: Monitor weight regularly and adjust medications if they contribute to significant weight gain.
If you have arthritis while dealing with weight gain, it’s best that you manage both conditions effectively and safely. By incorporating healthy lifestyle and treatments guided by trusted experts, weight management can be done safely and effectively! Interested to know more about how Marie France can help you on your wellness journey? You can book a FREE consultation with us today!
