5 min read
Do oral contraceptives actually contribute to weight gain?
Wojciech Wiśniewski
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Diets Premium Expert • 23.10.2026
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Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian:
This article has been peer-reviewed for adherence to IŻŻ, WHO, and PTGiP clinical nutritional standards.
| Diets Premium Expert Wojciech Wiśniewski | min read 5 min | Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian 23.10.2026 |
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Key Takeaways
Analysis of metabolic and hormonal factors influencing body weight changes during the use of oral contraceptives.
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Are the pills causing the tics?
First of all, we need to think about what this is all about. Most of the time, it's the result of a positive energy balance, we're taking in more calories than we burn. So weight gain is primarily a result of poor diet and lack of movement. Research shows that both oral contraceptive hormones and non-hormonal contraceptives don't increase weight, only the percentage of fat tissue can increase slightly (in the case of an anticonvulsant). However, in 2011, researchers at the Database System Review looked at 49 studies comparing different methods of contraception and blood tests.
New generation tablets
The new generation of birth control pills contained small concentrations of hormones (20 30 micrograms), more than seven times smaller than the first pills of the early 1960s, which were as much as 150 micrgrams, while maintaining their full efficacy. The older generation pills had extremely high levels of estrogen and progesterone. Estrogens in high doses can cause weight gain by increasing appetite and fluid retention by the kidneys. 50 years ago, indeed, tablets were able to produce estrogens, and synthetic estrogen may have also contributed to the growth of the breast, so it can give the impression of weight gain in the body of two healthy people.
How not to gain weight after birth control pills
Limit your intake of simple sugars. Drink plenty of water. Drink 1, 5 2 liters a day. Water reduces your appetite and prevents water retention in this regard. However, give up salt. Giving up too much sodium in favor of fruits, which are a rich source of vitamins and minerals. It's also worth betting on increased fiber in your diet, which will cause you to feel full. Drink a lot of water. Drink 1.5 2 liters daily. Drinking water reduces hunger and prevers your water withdrawal.
Wojciech Wiśniewski
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