5 Common Reasons You May Not Be Losing Weight
You eat healthily and exercise regularly yet are still having a tough time losing the unwanted pounds. Sound familiar? Believe it or not, this is a very common issue that men and women from all walks of life face. Below, we'll discuss several of the most common reasons you may not be losing weight despite your healthy lifestyle.
1. You’re Not Getting Enough Sleep
Although it’s easier said than done, you should be getting 8 to 9 hours of sleep every night. If you fail to do so, you may find it a challenge to lose weight. Here’s why: When you lose sleep, you may feel hungry, even if you’re not. You may also move around less and burn fewer calories as a result. So, if your goal is to lose weight, do yourself a favor and get enough shut-eye.
2. You’re Stressed Out
There is definitely a link between stress and weight gain as constant stress can lead to a number of health issues. First off, it can increase the production of your cortisol hormone, which can make you hungrier and cause you to store excess abdominal fat. Stress may also encourage you to reach for sugary or fatty foods and put working out low on your priority list.
3. You Take Weekends Off
If you maintain a healthy lifestyle during the week but eat and drink whatever you want and avoid exercise on the weekends, your weekend habits may be deterring you from your weight loss goals. While it’s okay to treat yourself every once in a while, disregarding your healthy every weekend can cost you.
4. You Have a Medical Condition or Are Taking a Certain Medication
There are certain medical conditions and medications that can make losing weight very difficult. Therefore, it’s a good idea to see your doctor and find out whether you have any conditions or are taking any medications that are interfering with your weight loss efforts. Thyroid conditions, beta-blockers to treat high blood pressure, antidepressant medications, and steroid medications are all examples.
5. You Have Hit a Plateau
Most people hit a weight loss plateau at some point in their lives. This is because as your body adapts to your workouts, it becomes more efficient and may expend fewer calories as a result. Your weight loss progress may slow down or even come to a stop. Doing the same workout every time, not eating enough calories, and overtraining can all cause you to hit a plateau.
Contact Total HealthcareMD
If you have further questions about why you may not be losing weight, call Total HealthcareMD at (919) 436-3777. We’ll be happy to evaluate your situation and recommend a personalized physician-led weight loss treatment plan.