Reasons for Obesity - What Causes Weight Gain?

Obesity rarely has a single cause. In this video, Dr. Vikram Lotwala, bariatric surgeon in Surat, explains the common reasons people gain excess weight and why losing it is harder than simply eating less.

Common causes of obesity

• Diet: Regular intake of high-calorie, processed and sugary foods, large portions and frequent snacking.
• Physical inactivity: Desk jobs, long screen time and little daily movement.
• Genetics: Obesity often runs in families, as genes affect appetite and how the body stores fat.
• Hormonal conditions: Hypothyroidism, PCOS and, rarely, Cushing's syndrome can lead to weight gain.
• Medicines: Some drugs, such as steroids and certain antidepressants, can increase weight.
• Poor sleep and stress: Lack of sleep and chronic stress disturb hunger hormones and increase cravings.

Why losing weight is so hard

When you lose weight through dieting, the body responds by increasing hunger and slowing metabolism to protect its fat stores. This is why many people regain weight after a diet. For people with severe obesity, medical treatment, including bariatric surgery, can help overcome this by changing hunger signals and how the body handles food.

Frequently asked questions

Can a thyroid problem cause obesity?
An underactive thyroid can cause some weight gain, but it is rarely the only reason for obesity. A blood test can check thyroid function.

Is obesity genetic?
Genes increase the risk, but lifestyle and environment decide how much that risk shows up.

Book a consultation with Dr. Vikram Lotwala to find the right obesity treatment for you in Surat.

Dr. Vikram Lotwala
Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon
Wings Hospital, 1st Floor, Abhilasha Apartments, Madhuvan Circle, L P Savani Road, Surat, Gujarat
Phone: +91 99099 66056