In response to the previous article, I would like to address some specific reasons for not losing weight.
As a holistic nutritionist, I believe that if we cannot achieve a desired state (be it in how we think or, in this case, our weight), the root of the problem might not be where we think it is. Not knowing the root cause of not losing weight might feel like you have absolutely no control, and eventually, you might lose not weight but any hope and motivation.
I am not saying that any of the below reasons are specific to what you might be dealing with, as sometimes the reason can be a combination of factors. However, I hope you see that weight loss is a subject that needs to be addressed with insight and knowledge.
Let’s see some possible reasons why you might not be able to lose weight even though you have tried all “diets” out there:
Leptin resistance
Leptin is a hormone produced by our fat cells. It tells the brain that we are full and that we are ready to burn fat for energy. With leptin resistance, the body does not recognize this hormone and, as a result, doesn’t burn but accumulates fat.
Insulin resistance
The hormone insulin regulates blood sugar levels. As with leptin, when we stop recognizing and responding to insulin, the body switches to fat storage mode.
Adrenal dysfunction
One of the main tasks of the adrenal glands is to produce the stress hormone cortisol. At the normal level, cortisol is an important participant in the work of the endocrine system, but its excess leads to retention of excess weight by the body.
Thyroid problems
Too low levels of thyroid hormones are one of the common causes of not losing weight. Low thyroid function can be recognized by symptoms such as hair loss, increased dryness and rashes on the skin, constipation, fatigue, pain in joints and/or muscles.
Abnormalities in estrogen and progesterone levels
Too low or high estrogen or progesterone throw the hormone system off balance and lead to fat retention.
Bowel abnormalities
Did you know that the intestine forms about 80% of a person’s immunity and produces almost all serotonin responsible for our mood?
A diet high in junk food leads to the development of a leaky gut syndrome. A leaky gut causes inflammation and a build-up of toxins that block the pathway to detoxification and waste elimination, essential to a healthy mind, body and weight loss.
To not harm your body and mind, you need to take a step back and re-examine whether a strict diet is doing you any good. As you see, weight loss is not only about calorie deficiency. If we focus on calorie deficiency only, we risk developing resistance to weight loss. Remember, only when a weight loss is organic it can be permanent. Why? Because losing weight is not the objective, being mindful of your mind and body is.
Let’s see a holistic approach to weight loss:
Get an examination
If you suspect that you have resistance to weight loss, see a specialist. Do not focus solely on treating symptoms but aim to identify and eliminate the underlying root causes. For example, if you are insulin resistant, you need to focus on how your body responds to insulin rather than losing weight. When your body regains the optimal level of functioning, the desired weight loss will follow.
Eliminate foods that cause internal inflammation
Each of us has a unique body: what is good for one triggers a reaction in another. It is because of our bio-individuality that diets do not work the same for everyone. It is possible to have hypersensitivity to foods that are classified as “healthy”, such as oatmeal, asparagus, strawberries, and legumes. Their use leads to chronic inflammation, a slowdown in metabolism and, as a result, weight gain. Today you can easily be tested for sensitivity to gluten, dairy products, nuts, soy and eggs. You can also determine a lot at home. If a product is causing you symptoms such as bloating, constipation, fatigue, and mood swings, you are most likely sensitive to it. Eliminate the product from the diet for 3-4 weeks and observe how you feel. If you feel a difference, try returning the product and see if symptoms return. If this happens, it is better to exclude the product from the diet completely.
Cut out sugar and white flour
Experts say that certain foods lead to changes in brain function that block weight loss. The main culprits are sugar and white flour. They stimulate the pleasure centres of the brain, developing an increasing craving for oneself. Sugar and flour change the hormonal background and lead to leptin and insulin resistance.
Focus on the nutritional value of the calories you consume
500 calories from broccoli have a completely different effect on the body than 500 calories from french fries. Eating nutritious foods is important to promote hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, and boost metabolism to promote weight loss. Saturate your body with fibre from plant-based foods, don’t be afraid of healthy fats, and eat foods that promote natural detoxification.
Do not starve yourself
When trying to lose weight, do not starve yourself. Not only does it not help – it harms your body. Low energy slows down the metabolism and blocks fat burning. Regular meals (at least two per day) are the basis of a weight loss regimen. This promotes healthy eating habits and helps avoid accidental unhealthy snacks.
Find “your” physical activity
In general, strength training, cardio, and yoga are effective tools. If you think that yoga is not intense enough to burn calories, it depends on the type of yoga. There are many examples where yoga has become an integral part of a successful weight loss routine. Yoga channels special therapeutic properties, strengthens muscles, promotes detoxification, normalizes hormones and reduces emotional stress – all of which are core to weight loss.
Get enough sleep
Sleep deprivation negatively affects hormones, slowing down the burning of fat, promoting the development of insulin resistance, and increasing appetite.
The secret to a holistic diet is that there is no diet! If you can adapt to the lifestyle, what you will notice first is how your body feels. You will feel strong, toned and energized. Your mind will also be strong, toned and energized! Then, weight loss will only be a side effect of all the amazing transformations that you will go through.
