If you've embarked on a weight loss journey, no matter what motivates you, it can be frustrating to find that the scale doesn't budge an ounce, despite your dieting or gym efforts.
Forget restrictive diets and long hours of training! It's time to understand some reasons, maybe even secret, why you can't lose weight. Dietitian Jessica Ball lists six of the top motivations, and here's what they're all about:
#1 You are focusing on eliminating foods and restricting calories
Most people quickly eliminate foods and severely restrict calories to lose weight, but being too restrictive can lead to failed results. "Restriction gives the idea of ??deprivation of nutrition, which can cause overeating. Instead, focus on balancing meals with plenty of protein, fiber, and foods you enjoy," says nutritionist Jessica Barron.
#2 You're skipping meals
Skipping meals or going too long without eating often leads to hunger and cravings for unhealthy foods. This can cause compulsive eating, too fast, or simply consuming the things you like the most.
#3 You are on a chronic diet
Chronic dieting and consuming insufficient calories can slow down your metabolism, making it harder to lose weight or regain it more easily. When you're in an extreme calorie deficit for a long time, your metabolism slows down to conserve energy and you practically just put on the pounds.
#4 You're eating too few carbs and not enough fiber
Low-carb diets are all fad diets that many people claim helped them lose weight. But science shows that going too long without eating carbs, or eating too few carbs, can lead to excess calorie intake. "Carbohydrates are essential for energy and brain function. "Low-carb diets can lead to fatigue, poor concentration and nutrient deficiencies," says nutritionist Andrea Hinojosa.
#5 You are not getting enough sleep
Sleep is important for many aspects of health as it helps regulate hormones related to appetite, stress and metabolism. While sleep itself doesn't cause weight loss, not getting enough sleep can disrupt your metabolism, keeping you awake longer and leading to more cravings.
#6 You are focusing too much on weight
Focusing too much on this slimming mission can negatively affect your health. Research has shown that weighing yourself every day tends to lead people to depression and anxiety, low self-esteem, etc.
Suggested articles:
Source: Eating Well
