Why don’t We Lose Weight When Eating Less & Exercising More?

Published on August 11 , 2020 | 3 Minutes to Read

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People in the hope of losing weight, what do they not do?From the treadmill to hitting up every gym class, strength training, and eating less, they pull all the stops. Most of us tend to think that losing weight means eating fewer calories and burning more energy.

In theory, that makes sense. But the problem is that this weight-loss is a short-term result and that too, an insignificant amount! For long-term weight-loss, this theory of eating less and exercising more doesn’t work.

Are You Cutting Calories?

There are various designer dieting programs out there. They can minimize the role of calories in food, but fail to maintain the balance, if not following the exercise regime synergistically. Plus, many of us who start off our days severely restricting calories tend to end up failing as this is not sustainable long term. This happens as we don’t lose all the excess weight and long term dieting is unsustainable! There is no light at the end of the tunnel!

Do You Constantly Crave Food?

It may not be a bad thing. If your workout is boosting your appetite, this isn’t a big deal. You may crave food for multiple reasons and hunger is often the last reason. But, still, if the amount of your calorie intake is more than what you are burning, you are going to gain weight especially if your metabolic set point is altered! You’d better take your time to consider if you are actually hungry, or just bored, sad, stressed, tired, or emotional. If you are really truly hungry, eat. Just make sure to include fiber-and-protein-rich foods that will fill you up. This protein powder can be a great way to start.

Are You Adding Enough Vegetables to Your Diet Plan?

The key to healthy eating, and achieving and maintaining a weight you’re happy with, is keeping a balance between high-calorie and low-calorie foods. That’s why it is important to add an abundance of vegetables to your healthy eating habit. However, eating mostly low-calorie foods, like salad, daily would probably give you a feel of insatiety and you will often find yourself overindulging. The best way to feel full each time you eat is to include vegetables at least half the volume of your plate. The fibre and water content will do the rest while fat, carbohydrates, and protein will help you feel satisfied.

Are you Sleep Deprived?

Weight-loss efforts yield positive results due to healthy eating, exercise, and sleep. If you miss out on any of them, the other two aren’t going to help you. But, for most people, sleep is a big problem. If you don’t get enough shuteye, the hormones (ghrelin and leptin) that control our hunger levels get thrown off, resulting in increased cravings that would lead to foiling your workouts. It means you should never compromise on your sleep time.

What Should You Do When You Can’t Lose Weight Despite Eating Less & Exercising More?

Consider consulting a doctor. There are several health conditions, like hormonal disorders, which may make it hard to lose weight and easy to gain even if you are doing everything else right. Polycystic ovary syndrome, for example, is often associated with increased stress hormones, which make it harder to lose weight, while low thyroid hormone levels tend to stall metabolism, leading to weight gain. Consult a bariatric specialist whose advice for treating the underlying conditions may help you.

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