Millions of people take Lexapro to help with their depression and anxiety. But one common side effect of the medication is weight gain. If you’re struggling to keep the pounds off, don’t worry – we have some tips for you! In this blog post, we will discuss how to avoid weight gain when taking Lexapro.
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What Is Lexapro?
Lexapro (escitalopram) is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. Lexapro works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters such as serotonin) in the brain.
It is important to know that Lexapro does not work for everyone. Some people may experience very little improvement in their symptoms, while others may feel a significant reduction in their depression or anxiety. It is also important to note that it can take several weeks before the full effects of the medication are felt.
Lexapro is routinely thought to be a safe and effective medication, yet can bring about certain side effects. Weight gain has been noted as one of these potential consequences – in fact, it’s even mentioned in the drug information!
Why Does Lexapro Cause Weight Gain?
Weight gain is a common side effect of taking Lexapro, and it can have a significant impact on your quality of life. While the exact mechanism behind this phenomenon is not fully understood, it likely has to do with some reasons listed below:
Appetite regulation
Taking Lexapro can cause a shift in appetite and subsequent weight gain. Some may find themselves hungrier than normal when they start the medication, while others might not feel hungry at all. If your cravings increase and you consume more calories without burning them off with exercise, then it’s likely that taking Lexapro will add on some extra pounds.
Metabolism changes
Another possible cause for weight gain might be a change in metabolism caused by taking Lexapro. This could be due to the medication’s effect on levels of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, that play an important role in metabolism.
Hormone changes
Lexapro may also cause hormonal imbalances which can lead to weight gain. For example, the drug can increase cortisol levels – a hormone that triggers hunger and cravings for unhealthy foods. For example, taking Lexapro can lead to an increase in cortisol levels, which can decrease the amount of energy your body is able to burn off effectively, leading to weight gain.
Water retention
Finally, Lexapro may cause water retention which can also lead to weight gain. This is due to the medication’s effect on electrolyte balance in the body, leading to an accumulation of fluids in tissues. Lexapro can also raise sodium levels in the body, which contributes to water retention. It’s important to note that the amount of weight gain
All in all, it is important to understand that taking Lexapro may cause weight gain, and it’s important to talk with your doctor about any concerns you may have. Your doctor can help you come up with strategies to minimize the effects of weight gain and find an appropriate dose of Lexapro if needed.
How Can You Manage Your Lexapro Weight Gain?
If in spite of your best efforts, you still experience Lexapro weight gain, there are strategies to help manage it. Some of these are listed below:
Exercise regularly
Incorporating a regular exercise routine into your lifestyle can help you maintain a healthy weight. Exercise also encourages the release of endorphins in your brain, which can boost your mood and help you cope with stress. In fact, there are several types of exercise that can help reduce symptoms of depression.
Eat a balanced diet
If the weight gain has been gradual, it could be due to an imbalance in the food you are eating. Eating a balanced diet gives your body all the essential nutrients and calories it needs to maintain a healthy weight. Try to include a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and fish in your meals every day. Choose foods that are low in saturated fat, added sugars, and salt.
Cut back on calories
Too many calories can lead to weight gain. If you have been taking in more calories than your body needs, that could be a reason for the gradual weight gain. Reducing calorie intake can help you lose some of the excess weight. Try to reduce your portion sizes, cut down on snacking, and avoid sugary drinks and high-calorie desserts.
Reduce stress levels
Stress is a major factor that can cause weight gain and a sluggish metabolism. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious, take some time out to relax and practice stress-relieving activities like yoga or meditation. This will help reduce your stress levels and improve your overall health.
Get enough sleep
Sometimes, lack of sleep can lead to weight gain. Try to get at least seven hours of sleep each night and maintain a regular sleep schedule. This will help balance your hormones and keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Make sure to avoid any electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime to ensure a good night’s rest.
All in all, by following these steps, you can achieve a healthy weight and avoid any further weight gain. Remember to consult your doctor if you are having trouble losing excess weight or if you have any other health concerns. With the proper diet and lifestyle changes, you can keep your weight in check effortlessly.
Can You Prevent Lexapro Weight Gain?
In short, the answer is yes. There are a few ways you can prevent weight gain while taking Lexapro:
- Monitor your calorie intake. Pay close attention to the number of calories you are consuming each day, and adjust your portions accordingly.
- Increase physical activity. Exercise will help keep your metabolism active and can help prevent weight gain from Lexapro.
- Talk to your doctor about other medications. If you feel like Lexapro is causing you to gain weight, your doctor may be able to help by recommending an alternative medication.
- Seek professional help for emotional eating. If your Lexapro-induced weight gain is caused by emotional eating, talking to a mental health professional can help you learn how to better manage and cope with your emotions in a healthy way that does not involve overeating.
- Avoid substance use. Avoiding alcohol and drugs can help you prevent weight gain while taking Lexapro. For example, alcohol can increase your appetite and lead to overeating.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you don’t experience significant weight gain while taking Lexapro. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have concerns about weight gain or other potential side effects of the medication. They can provide personalized advice on how to manage any issues you may be experiencing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lexapro weight gain is very common, with most people gaining some weight while taking the medication. However, since everyone reacts differently to medications, it’s important to speak with your doctor. And monitor any changes in your body or weight over time. By following a healthy diet plan and engaging in regular exercise, individuals can manage their weight gain. And still, receive all of the benefits of Lexapro.
Additionally, health professionals can work with patients to adjust dosage levels or recommend alternative medications if needed. With proper care and guidance, individuals taking Lexapro should be able to maintain a healthy weight balance.
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