Most of us who are overweight are “simply” eating more calories than we need and burning too few of them. There are, however, some other situations which may contribute to weight gain. Let’s take a look at two of them:1.Medical conditions that interfere with the production or metabolism of any of our hormones may cause weight gain. Such conditions are called endocrine diseases and include disorders of the thyroid, ovary, adrenals, pancreas, and pituitary glands.2.Sometimes the drugs which are needed to treat disease may also cause weight gain. Medications such as antidepressants, steroids and other anti-inflammatory agents, hormones, seizure medications may cause us to gain weight by interfering with metabolism or they may increase the appetite.A through evaluation by your health care provider is essential to determine the exact cause of weight gain. If it is solely a matter of eating too much and exercising too little the solution is clear…a lifestyle change is in order. However, there may be other medical issues which are contributing to the weight problem as well. Some of the causes can be “fixed” and others cannot.For example, if you gained weight after starting medication for depression or high blood pressure, the physician may be able to prescribe a substitute which will not affect weight. If your weight gain is a result of fluid retention, a diuretic (water pill) may be needed. Perhaps you have been exercising and have simply built up your muscles. The scale will reflect a weight gain because muscle weighs more than fat. Perhaps you are gaining weight because you are “carrying somebody else” around with you…pregnancy is an obvious cause of weight gain.There is always a need for proper evaluation if you have rather suddenly gained weight. If your doctor checks you out and eliminates underlying medical reasons for weight gain, the answer will involve a reduction of calories and an increase in exercise. Try these tips:- Reduce the size of your portions.- Eliminate drinks that have been sweetened with sugar.- Reduce your intake of fat.- Avoid dining out whenever you can.- Start an exercise program.- Incorporate “movement” into your daily life.Overweight and obesity are serious conditions that can lead to even more serious medical disorders such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.Our children are also overweight and bear an even greater likelihood of developing chronic diseases related to weight because of the long time they will have been overweight by the time they reach adulthood.Start today to regain control over your weight.