What Supplements Cause Weight Gain?
Diet and lifestyle factors are the best ways to gain weight; however, some individuals struggle with reaching their ideal body weight and may resort to supplements as a solution.
Vitamins cannot directly contribute to weight gain since they lack caloric intake; however, certain vitamins can indirectly influence metabolism and your weight by playing an indirect role in metabolism.
Vitamins
Finding the appropriate weight to feel healthy is an integral component of overall wellbeing. Some individuals may struggle with naturally gaining weight, leading them to use supplements in an attempt to achieve weight gain. As with all new supplements or weight gain products, it’s wise to consult a medical provider before trying anything new.
Vitamins are essential to our bodies, yet too much vitamin intake may lead to weight gain. Studies have shown that high-dose supplementation with formula, fortification of foods with artificial vitamins or natural sources and excess artificial/natural vitamin intake have all been associated with weight gain; particularly among fortified nations, women (compared to men) and those of lower socio-Economic Status (SES).
Certain vitamins can impact appetite, leading to altered food consumption and weight. B1 and B12 vitamins in particular assist the body with extracting energy from food sources for metabolic reactions or storage for later. If these vitamins are in short supply, deficiency could result in anemia – leading to decreased food consumption and weight loss.
Choline, another vitamin B family micronutrient, helps cells use fats and carbohydrates efficiently while also regulating hormones that control appetite and metabolism. Unfortunately, too much choline consumption may lead to weight gain.
Lacks of various vitamins may also contribute to weight gain. Vitamin A is an antioxidant known for protecting and repairing cells; it’s found in various food items such as eggs, liver, fish and vegetables and is also an excellent source of protein; too much Vitamin A could lead to higher energy levels and fat storage resulting in weight gain.
Many individuals inherit a genetic tendency towards being underweight, so they may attempt to increase their weight using vitamin supplements as a method. It’s important to keep in mind, though, that such supplements should only be taken as part of a balanced diet and appropriate exercise program; excessive vitamin supplement usage may cause overeating and obesity so it is vitally important that only take what your body needs at any one time.
Carbohydrates
Carbs are essential sources of energy for both body and mind. Muscles need carbohydrates in order to function, while carbohydrates also play an essential role in mood and memory functions. Without enough carbs in our diets, our bodies will turn to other sources such as breaking down proteins and fat as sources of energy – leading to weight gain, fatigue and frequent hunger pangs.
Carbs can be found in many nutritious and unhealthy foods, including bread, beans, milk, fruits, vegetables and potatoes. Carbs play an integral part of a balanced diet and should be consumed throughout the day as fuel for your body and brain. When carbohydrates enter your system they’re broken down into sugars which provide energy directly or stored as glycogen for later use – however Glycogen can only store about half-day’s worth of energy so your body needs regular doses of carbs for proper functioning.
Carbs often garner misconceptions regarding which ones are beneficial and which ones should be avoided. Pastries, sodas and other highly processed foods high in simple sugars tend to be considered “bad” carbs because of their lack of nutritional value – these “empty calories.”
Healthy carbohydrates can be found in whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruit as well as some dairy products, among others. These carbohydrates digest more slowly than simple sugars while providing essential vitamins and nutrients – not to mention fiber! A diet rich in healthy carbohydrates may lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes obesity and cancer.
When selecting carbohydrates, pay special attention to their glycemic index. Foods with a high glycemic index tend to raise blood sugar rapidly and increase your risk for weight gain, diabetes and heart disease; on the other hand, whole grains and legumes with lower glycemic indices have been linked with decreased rates of heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.
Proteins
Protein is the building block of muscle tissue and, when combined with resistance exercise, can help promote weight gain. Consuming it in conjunction with carbohydrates also increases caloric intake – although consumption should be restricted through diet in order to avoid overindulgence which could pose health problems. High-quality proteins can be found in dairy products, whey powders and eggs while vitamin B supplements such as B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, B-12 and biotin may aid weight gain as they convert food into energy while supporting normal metabolism rates.
An iron deficiency, an essential mineral, can make weight gain harder because your metabolism slows. Supplements provide all of the iron needed to assist weight gain.
