There are plenty of reasons why you may be gaining weight. Some of the weight reasons may be obvious like taking in more calories than before or living a very sedentary lifestyle, but others may be a bit more difficult to identify. Here is a list of the top weight gain reasons and culprits.

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1. Lack of sleep

According to health expert, Michele May, when you don't get enough sleep, biochemically, your body stores fat more efficiently. Also, if you're constantly tired, you don't handle stress as well, which may cause you to eat more. Aim to get 7 or 8 hours of sleep each night.

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Points: 15

2. Certain medications

Are you taking steroids, diabetes medications or antidepressants? Medications are among the top weight gain reasons. Some prescription drugs can actually cause up to 10 pounds a month weight gain! Some of these drugs increase appetite, some cause fluid retention, and some alter the way fat is stored. Be sure you are eating healthy foods and exercising regularly.

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Points: 12

3. Ordering salad

When eating out, be specific with your order. A salad containing croutons, cheese, a creamy dressing and bacon can end up being over 500 calories! Ask to have the dressing on the side and choose a vinegar and oil dressing over a creamy dressing.

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Points: 10

4. Stress

Stress can be a major weight gain reason as it causes your body to go into survival mode. Your body stores fat, metabolism slows down, and chemicals such as cortisol and leptin end up in the abdominal region, causing you to gain weight. Try to minimize the stress in your life, or at least fit in some relaxation during the day.

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Points: 9

5. Hypothyroidism

If you're feeling lethargic, hoarse, and bloated, you may need to be checked for a medical condition known as hypothyroidism. A deficiency of the thyroid hormone can slow down metabolism, which decreases appetite loss and increases weight.

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Points: 7

6. Being cold

You may think being cold would cause you to move around more and burn calories. However, your body naturally kicks into a mode of storing fat to keep you warm. During the cooler months, wear a sweater or sweatshirt inside the house to stay fairly warm.

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Points: 5

7. Not enough water

Not drinking enough water is a common weight gain reason. If you don't take in enough liquids, your body becomes sluggish, and you tend to move around less. Keep your body fueled with at least eight glasses of water a day.

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Points: 4

8. Cushing’s syndrome

Intake of corticosteroid for curing asthma, lupus and arthritis results in Cushing Syndrome. This disease may lead to rapid weight gain, especially in areas such as the face, neck and waist.

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9. Giving up smoking

On average a person who quits smoking gains 6 or 7 pounds. Nicotine curbs your appetite and increases your metabolism, so without it, you feel hunger pangs which leads to overeating. Also, because nicotine tends to dull the taste buds, without it, food tastes better and you want more. To keep hunger and taste in line, try sipping on an herbal tea or lemon water.

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Points: 2

10. Your computer

It's becoming more and more convenient to accomplish things via the computer. Rather than walking the mall, we order on-line. Instead of going to places to pay our bills, we pay on-line. Need a card? We search for an e-card rather than standing looking at cards. Be cautious of how much time you spend sitting in front of the computer.

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Points: 1

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