Have you ever wondered why your favorite jeans feel a bit tighter since you entered a blissful relationship? According to integrative doctor Kate Novaya, hormonal changes might hold the answer. In a viral Instagram post, she shared that the body’s production of feel-good hormones like oxytocin increases in safe, happy relationships, which can slow metabolism and increase appetite. This sparked a debate, with some agreeing and others dismissing her claims. But could there be more to this phenomenon?
The Realities of Relationship Weight Gain
Relationship weight gain isn’t just a myth. According to fitness expert Kushal Pal Singh from Anytime Fitness, the development of shared habits, like indulging more in comfort food or exercising less, can lead to weight gain. Singh explains that in stable relationships, people feel less pressure to maintain a certain body image, leading to shifts in eating and activity patterns.
Lifestyle Changes and Their Impact
Several factors contribute to the phenomenon of gaining weight in relationships:
- Dining Out More Frequently: Couples enjoy exploring restaurants, leading to calorie-dense meals.
- Increased Alcohol Intake: Socializing often involves drinks, adding extra calories.
- Decreased Physical Activity: Prioritizing time together over exercise can lead to less movement.
- Adapting to Partner’s Eating Habits: Aligning with each other’s dietary preferences can impact nutritional choices.
The Hormonal Side of Things
Weight loss expert Dr. Rajiv Kovil discusses how happy relationships help in reducing stress and emotional eating by stimulating hormones like dopamine and serotonin. However, imbalances in stress hormone cortisol can lead to weight gain, especially in less healthy relationships. Lower cortisol means less stress and better weight regulation.
Newlyweds and Weight Patterns
Studies show that married life often correlates with weight gain. A study noted that married women gained an average of 24 pounds in the first five years of marriage. Cohabiting women gained less. Researchers suggest that the comfort of a secure relationship leads to a decrease in the motivation to maintain weight. Couples are advised to adopt healthier lifestyle practices, balancing indulgence with nutrition and exercise.
The Healthy Balance
Ultimately, according to experts, relationship weight gain should not be permanent. Keeping check on lifestyle shifts and hormonal dynamics can lead to well-being. If persistent changes in weight appear, it might be time to reassess relationship dynamics or health habits.
This exploration of the intricate connection between relationships and weight offers a fresh perspective and a reminder: a happy relationship is about more than just numbers on the scale.
According to India Today, your relationship affects your weight in more ways than one.
