So you’ve been working out 3x a week in the last 2 months and still not getting the results you want? You’ve probably wondered how you’re not shedding any weight when everyone else in your Orangetheory Fitness spin class have reached their weight loss goals.
If you have a healthy diet and you exercise regularly, but are barely losing any excess weight, there may be a reason. Here are the most common reasons to consider:
Reason 1. You don’t keep track of what you eat.
Keeping track of what you eat can greatly help you with your weight loss goals. Counting your calories and keeping a record of your meals on a daily basis will let you know if you’re actually meeting your calorie limits. For all you know, you could be eating more calories than what your body burns.
Reason 2. You’re not getting sufficient amounts of protein.
Protein is vital for weight loss. It can amp up your metabolism by as much as 100 calories per day. Your diet should be 25-30% protein as this will not only boost metabolism but also prevent food cravings.
Reason 3: You’re not consuming whole foods.
Whole foods help regulate your appetite and are more filling than processed foods as they contain more fiber and nutrients.
Reason 4. You’ve overlooked strength training.
If you want to lose weight you should do strength training to build and maintain muscle mass. Muscle mass burns more body fat and prevent metabolic slowdown so you don’t end up with saggy or loose skin when you lose weight.
Reason 5: You drink beer a lot.
Beer, wine and other beverages that are high in carbs (and sugar) can affect your weight loss efforts. Even fruit juices may have large amounts of sugar. You may think a glass or two of beer everyday is harmless but it can give you empty calories.
Reason 6: You don’t get enough sleep.
Inadequate sleep is a risk factor for weight gain and obesity. Not only does it slow down metabolism but it also gives you more cravings so you’re likely to overeat without realizing it.
Reason 7: Eating too many small meals throughout the day.
Some people may tell you to eat several small meals throughout the day to jumpstart your metabolism but I have yet to meet someone who’s actually lost weight using this technique. You’re better off doing intermittent fasting.
Reason 8: You’re not properly hydrated.
Drinking enough water can help your body burn more calories by as much as 30% over a 1.5 hour period. Plus it can stave off unnecessary cravings and hunger pangs. Tip: When you think you’re hungry, drink water.
Reason 9: You have a medical condition that prevents weight loss.
Some medical conditions may cause weight gain or make it difficult to lose weight. Here are the most common:
- Hypothyroidism
- PCOS
- Sleep apnea
Consult your doctor to see if you have any medical issue that may be preventing you from losing weight so that proper treatment can be given.
Watch this video explaining how you can lose weight by drinking water: