Contributed by – Healthians Team
Many complain that inspite of eating less they are not losing weight. Few others say even though they exercise, the scales are not budging. The fact is that if you are working towards losing weight, you should be able to shed some kilos. However, if you have not been successful, you need to take a closer look at it and find the reasons. There are many factors that influence your weight.
Here are the commonest 12 possible reasons you’re not losing weight.
Your diet lacks a healthy mix
Your weight loss diet must be a mix of all essential nutrients while limiting calorie rich foods. If you are not taking enough proteins, complex carbs and healthy fats in your diet, your weight loss program may not be effective. Another reason for not losing weight is skipping meals and going without food for long hours. This simply signals your body to store the fat and carbs for reserve; instead you can eat healthy foods at small intervals to promote better metabolism and fat burning. And yes, if you are not consistent in following a healthy diet and routine, you know why you are not losing weight.
You are binge eating
Binge eating is one of the commonest reasons why many people are unable to lose weight. Depriving yourself of food and then overindulging in unhealthy foods can be dangerous. It disturbs your hormone balance and does not allow you to lose weight.
You eat more after a workout
Working out regularly, going for a swim or doing other cardio is indeed a good thing. But are you paying attention to your diet? After exercising, some feel hungrier and end up in consuming more calories than losing. This may be another reason why you are not losing weight. So, watch your diet and choose foods wisely to compliment your workout.
Your thyroid needs attention
Losing weight is all about boosting your metabolism. Any health problem which affects your body metabolism, increases your risk of weight gain. Thyroid problem is one such important metabolic disorder, which can be a reason you are not losing weight. Know your thyroid levels to keep a check on your weight.
You are missing out on specific exercises
On your weight loss program, you need to plan a perfect combination of cardio exercises and strength training for best results. If you are missing out on any of them, you may not be able to burn fat and build muscle mass effectively.
You sit more and move less at work
Exercising regularly is good, but being physically active throughout the day is equally important. Even if you are exercising every day, your body needs to be active during the entire day. If your work demands sitting for long hours, with very little movement, it can affect your metabolism. This too can affect your weight loss program.
You do not drink enough water
Surprisingly drinking water also helps to burn calories in addition to keeping you healthy. Drinking water has numerous benefits and also keeps your appetite in check. So check your water intake, if you are not able to lose weight.
You are taking too much stress
Some stress is encouraging but too much of stress; particularly for an extended period can be dangerous. When you are over stressed, the stress hormones released in your body can affect your diet, sleep and even metabolism; thus storing more fat. Excess stress, anxiety and depression not only affects your health but also affects your weight loss plan. So, if you trying hard but not able to lose weight, you may be too stressed.
Your hormones are fluctuating
Hormones play a very important role in influencing your diet, appetite, satiety and overall metabolism. Any fluctuations in your hormone levels is an important cause of not losing weight.Women having polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) and menopausal women may particularly find it difficult to lose weight due to hormone changes. Check your hormones to be sure.
You are not getting enough sleep
Adequate sleep is essential for effective digestion and metabolism. Lack of sleep can release hormones that affect your satiety and result in increased appetite. It can also cause more storage of carbs and fats, while reducing metabolism. People lacking in sleep may indulge more in emotional eating that can affect their weight.So, another reason for not losing weight effectively could be lack of adequate sleep.
Your blood sugar levels are high
If your weight loss is stuck up, think about your blood sugar. High blood sugar levels can affect your weight loss regime. This metabolic problem, can be one of the reasons you are not losing weight and need to check your blood sugar levels.
You are over focused
Being focused on your target is good but being over focused may be harmful. Sounds weird? Yes, that’s possible. Some studies have suggested that being over focused at work can make you feel hungrier and increase cravings for junk food to make up for the lost energy. Also, if you are over focused about your weight loss plan, the continuous thought of it may lead to increased desire to eat more unhealthy foods.
“Weight loss is a complex process. Make sure you check the weighing scales as well as inch loss, as sometimes you may be losing weight without knowing. Also, a regular check on basic parameters is important to continue with a healthy weight loss regime”, as informed by Dr Walia Murshida Huda, Senior Wellness Consultant, Healthians.
