The Tie Between Weight Gain and the COVID-19 Pandemic

A blurred image of a woman sitting on the floor in the background, holding her head and arms against her knees in disappointment, with a focused scale in the foreground.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic quickly and unexpectedly took the world by storm over 2 years ago, millions of people have experienced various changes in their health, wellness and overall lifestyle. From long-hauler COVID-19 symptoms to increased anxiety and depression, the coronavirus has taken a toll on all of us to some extent.

One of the most noticeable effects of the pandemic, outside of what COVID-19 caused directly, is an increased number on the scale for many Americans.

Whether or not you’ve struggled with weight gain, weight fluctuations or eating disorders in the past, the coronavirus has brought the challenge of maintaining a healthy weight to the forefront of our society once again, making obesity an even larger challenge than before.

If you’ve experienced an increase in your weight outside of the standard fluctuation of a couple of pounds thanks to the pandemic, there are various treatment options available to help you lose the weight and keep it off, especially if traditional diet and exercise aren’t cutting it.

Have Many Americans Experienced Pandemic Weight Gain?

In an APA study conducted in 2021, 42% of people reported an unhealthy weight gain attributed to the pandemic.

Although not a direct symptom or result of contracting the Sars-COV-2 virus, weight gain has affected millions of Americans in a country already grappling with an obesity epidemic.

Why Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Cause Weight Gain?

Everyone’s experience throughout the pandemic is unique, but various factors have been linked to COVID-19 weight gain, including significant changes in

  • diet and eating habits
  • exercise plans
  • sleep patterns
  • daily routines
  • activity level
  • stress and anxiety levels
  • mental, emotional and financial stability

Many people use food as a coping mechanism to handle challenging or worrisome situations that have been brought on by the pandemic. Due to this, pandemic weight gain has affected millions.

Living with obesity during a pandemic doesn’t just affect the number on the scale or the reflection in the mirror, though. Weight gain and increased BMI can put you at an increased risk of complications if you contract COVID-19.

Weight Loss Options to Get Rid of COVID Weight Gain

If you’ve been living with pandemic weight gain that has caused you to become obese, we can help.

Beltre Bariatrics offers a variety of weight loss options to help you lose weight and keep it off.

With proven effects of significantly decreasing your body weight and alleviating other obesity-related health conditions, weight loss surgery can positively impact your life in the long run.

To us, it’s not just about dropping pounds, but more so about a complete lifestyle change that allows you to live life as your healthiest self.

Contact our team of bariatric experts today to schedule a free consultation.

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