Can Sertraline Cause Weight Gain? Will SSRIs Make me Fat?

Описание: As you begin to take SSRIs you will notice some changes to your body, but can Sertraline cause gain weight and what can you do to avoid any similar side effects? Weight gain is a concern for many people, and a healthy weight is associated with a healthy body. It is therefore expected that many users of SSRIs would have concerns over an improvement in mental health coming at the cost of physical health.

There isn't a consensus regarding the reason for weight gains whilst taking antidepressants but there are some key theories:

Metabolism - it has been suggested that SSRIs like Sertraline and other antidepressants can alter your metabolism, making your body less efficient at burning calories.

Carbohydrate Cravings - some users of antidepressants report an increased craving for carbs leading to dietary changes involving lots of bread, pasta, cake etc. Foods heavy in carbs tend rise the blood sugar and eventually lead to increased fat cells.

Eating for pleasure - some experts think that weight gain is a side effect of feeling more pleasure in things. As our serotonin and dopamine levels being to regulate at normal levels and our brain begins to allow that range of emotions more fluently, some believe that we simply rediscover a love of tasty food and consequently want more!

Research suggests around 20% of people on antidepressants experience some sort of weight gain - usually a few lbs - so there is some evidence to suggest it won't effect you at all. The latest paper I looked at suggested a 5% gain is quite possible.

A calorie surplus is still going to be the biggest precursor to weight gain. Coupled with inactivity, and changes to these areas is where you will see the biggest benefit. We know from years of research that both exercise and a nutritious diet are both significant approaches to reducing depression so there is more encouragement to adopt a healthier lifestyle to not only counteract any weight gain but also support the job of the antidepressant you are currently taking.

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