5 Reasons You Are Not Losing Weight
Some people get truly puzzled on why they are not losing weight like they feel they should be. As a trainer going on two decades, I hear it all the time from people that are seeking my services or opinion.
“I’ve been dieting and I still am not losing weight!”
It is usually followed by a frustrated sigh, a bit of a frown, and a sad face. I always respond carefully because for one thing, I do not want to crush their spirits. Losing weight can take some serious effort. And for another, I have no idea what they are exactly doing to lose weight since I do not follow them around 24 hours a day. I left my stalkerish habits behind me a long time ago.
Here are five obvious reasons people tend to not be losing weight.
Trying a Diet Instead of a Lifestyle Change
Diets are mainly short-term solutions. If you want to lose weight and keep it off, more than likely you should be investing in a true lifestyle change instead. Avoid unhealthy foods and drinks permanently instead of just for a month or two. You will be able to maintain a healthy weight this way without the yo-yo effect.
Eating Late at Night
Night-time snacking can lead to weight gain even if you are watching the calories the rest of the day. Once you finish your dinner for the night, don’t go back for chips and cookies later on. Drink some water if you are still feeling hungry.
A Diet Soda Doesn’t Mean You Can Eat a Ton of Calories
Many people will think that diet soda they are drinking will somehow counteract their poor choices of food they are eating. This is far from the case. In fact, there is debate that diet sodas are no better for you than the high-calorie ones as the chemicals in diet soda have been shown to make the person more hungry anyway. Instead of worrying about diet or regular cola, drink healthier alternatives like tea, water, or milk.
Eating Too Much
Some people will claim they are sticking to three meals a day, but have you seen how large some of the meals are nowadays? My in-laws treat every meal like an all-you-can-eat buffet with several trips to load up their plates. Slow down! It takes 20 to 30 minutes before your stomach can relay the information to your brain that you are full. Eat slowly and you will eat less.
Leading a Sedentary Life
Do you find yourself sitting on the couch binging show after show once you get home from work or school? If you are not active, then your metabolism slows down considerably. Even if you are reducing your calorie count, you must still be exercising to get the weight loss results you are after. Reduce your calories, eat healthier, and stick to a workout program. You will be happy with your weight loss if you do!