You're eating healthier and working out more. But why aren't you losing weight? Here are 5 possible reasons why this happens.
1. You're still eating too much
You have replaced your pizzas and nasi lemak with lots of fruits, yoghurt and nuts. But that doesn't mean you can eat as much as you want. Oranges and bananas are rich in vitamins, but they also tend to be high in sugar. Nuts are a great source of protein, but have a high fat and caloric content. In other words, the quantity of healthy food you consume is as important as the type of food you eat.
2. You don't vary your workout routine
If you keep doing the same exercise routine e.g. running for an hour every day, your body will hit a plateau over time and you stop making progress. To overcome this, challenge your body by changing your workouts routines.
3. You don't sleep enough
Lack of sleep has been linked to an increase in hunger and appetite, and possibly weight problems and obesity. Inadequate sleep also stimulates cravings for high-fat, high-carbohydrate and sugary foods. A 2004 study suggests that people who get less than 6 hours sleep a day were 30% more likely to become obese than those who slept for 7 to 9 hours.
4. You are perpetually stressed
Stress eating or emotional eating results in you eating high-calorie foods, even when you're not hungry, as a way to handle your daily stress. Find a healthier way to manage your stress e.g. dancing, gardening or going to the gym.
5. You're gaining muscle
This is the best case scenario for weight gain. When you start exercising, your body composition will change to a higher muscle mass and lower body fat. Because muscle is denser than fat, it is therefore heavier, resulting in you gaining weight.
(Source: Not losing weight? by Fiona Ho, StarFit4Life, 9 February 2014)
So take a moment to reflect on what is the real reason stopping you from losing weight and address the problem. You will find that you are more successful in achieving your objective.
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