Eat less, move more. That is the underlying formula for fat loss. But despite maybe doing that, some people simply can’t crack the code. Well, then. This is the real reason you are not losing weight.
When it comes to weight loss, the most obvious reasons people struggle are overeating and lack of physical activity. However, there are many less obvious factors that can impede weight loss efforts, even for those on healthy diets or exercise regimes. Today, we’ll delve into the more subtle reasons you might not be achieving your weight loss goals and how to address them.
We at BOXROX are not scientists or biology experts to make claims about the real reason you are not losing weight. But Dr Eric Berg is knowledgeable and that is exactly what he shared.
Dr Eric Berg DC is a chiropractor, health coach, and author based in Alexandria, Virginia. He has a YouTube channel with over 11 million subscribers in which he shares videos on various health and wellness topics, including fitness.
So let’s get to it, shall we?
The REAL Reason You Are Not Losing Weight
Insulin and Metabolism
Insulin plays a crucial role in metabolism and weight management. It’s a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by facilitating the storage of glucose. When your insulin levels are consistently high, your body can become resistant to it, which can slow down your metabolism and hinder weight loss.
Foods high in sugar and processed carbohydrates can spike insulin levels, even if they don’t directly contain sugar. For example, many processed foods have high glycemic indexes, meaning they can raise blood sugar levels more than natural sugars like cane sugar.
“Insulin is triggered by sugar and other things that are hidden sugars.”
To improve insulin sensitivity, reduce intake of sugars and processed carbs, cut out snacking, and incorporate regular exercise. Additionally, ensure you are getting enough sleep and managing stress, as both can impact insulin levels.
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Hidden Sugars and Carbohydrates
Many foods labelled as low-sugar or sugar-free can still affect your blood sugar levels due to their carbohydrate content.
“Even though it’s not called a sugar, we’re just going to call it sugar because it acts like a sugar.”
Carbohydrates break down into sugars in the body, which can lead to higher insulin levels. It’s essential to read food labels carefully and understand the glycemic index of the foods you are consuming.
Seed Oils
Seed oils, such as those derived from corn, soy, and sunflower, can also affect insulin and contribute to weight gain. These oils can promote inflammation and insulin resistance, making it harder to lose weight.
Stress and Sleep
Lack of sleep and chronic stress can significantly impact your weight loss efforts. Poor sleep can increase hunger and cravings for unhealthy foods, while stress can elevate cortisol levels, which can lead to increased fat storage, especially around the abdominal area.
“If you really want to do a good demo, check your blood sugars after a night that you haven’t slept,” Berg says.
Frequent Meals and Snacking
Eating frequently can keep insulin levels high, preventing your body from burning fat. Intermittent fasting, or reducing the number of meals you eat in a day, can help lower insulin levels and promote fat burning.
Overtraining
Exercise is beneficial for weight loss, but too much can be counterproductive. Overtraining without adequate rest can lead to fatigue and increased stress levels, which can affect weight loss.
According to Berg, all you need to do to see improvements is to take your “high-intensity exercise program and space it out more so there’s more rest.”
Related: The Ultimate Guide to the Highest Calorie-Burning Exercises
Medications
Certain medications, such as antidepressants and antibiotics, can interfere with weight loss. They can affect metabolism, appetite, and insulin sensitivity. If you suspect your medication is affecting your weight, consult your doctor for alternatives.
Read Also: Some Antidepressants Cause More Weight Gain than Others, Harvard Study Finds
Nutrients and Supplements
Some nutrients and supplements can aid in weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation. Berberine, apple cider vinegar, and vitamin D are notable examples.
“Apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon per glass of water, sip it with a straw to make sure that you don’t get all this acid on your teeth.”
Berberine helps reduce insulin levels and inflammation, while apple cider vinegar can improve blood sugar control.
Weight loss is a complex process influenced by many factors beyond just diet and exercise. Insulin resistance, hidden sugars, seed oils, stress, lack of sleep, frequent meals, overtraining, medications, and nutrient deficiencies can all play a role in preventing weight loss. By addressing these factors and adopting a holistic approach to health, you can overcome these obstacles and achieve your weight loss goals. Remember to monitor your body’s response to changes and consult with healthcare professionals when needed.
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- Supplementation: Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels
