There may be many reasons you’re not losing weight. Here are some of the most common reasons’ why you’re not losing weight. Read further for pitfalls to avoid to improve your chances of success.
Six Possible Reasons You’re Not Losing Weight
A short-term attitude
Without a long-term approach to weight loss, you may lose 10 or more pounds in two weeks and then suffer a rebound when you discover that regimen wasn’t working for you. This is all too common when people embark on strict diets such as keto or paleo, or fad diets that promise rapid weight loss.
Understand that fad diets, excessive exercise and “detoxes” don’t usually work. They only last as long as your willpower lasts, and I’m willing to bet that’s not more than two weeks to a couple of months.
There are no quick fixes, miracle cures or magic pills when it comes to weight loss, despite what the wellness industry might have you believe: Losing weight requires dedication to a plan that supports long-term healthy habits.
An all-or-nothing mindset
Many people who struggle with a short-term attitude also struggle with an all-or-nothing mindset. I myself began my health and fitness journey with this mindset. I cut out all (literally all!) processed foods: no bread, no pasta, no milk, no cheese, definitely no individually wrapped snacks.
Then, of course, you violate those rules and feel bad about goring on all the favorite foods you had excluded. This only leads to cycling.
This all-or-nothing concept applies to fitness, too. The most effective workouts to get in shape in the least amount of time left and right but don’t feel fitter or stronger, you might be doing too much.
A poor support system
Supportive friends, family members and significant others are critical to successful weight loss. If I was asked to cite the most common reason for not sticking to a healthy diet from my past personal training clients, I would say stigma.
A solid support system is key to long-term weight loss. Without it, the journey can feel lonely and intimidating.
If you currently feel you lack a support system, try having open conversations with your friends, family and partner about it. You can make it clear that they don’t have to change their eating habits if they don’t want to, but that your health means a lot to you and you’d appreciate it if they didn’t mock or downplay your hard work.
Thinking exercise conquers all
If you’re at all attuned to the wellness industry, you’ll know this saying: “Abs are made in the kitchen, not the gym.” Even if your goals don’t include a shredded stomach, the adage is still relevant. You just can’t out-exercise a poor diet.
Exercise should definitely be part of your overall approach to weight loss because it’s proven to aid weight loss (not to mention its long list of other health benefits), but it’s difficult to lose weight from exercise alone.
Many people overestimate the number of calories they can burn from their workouts — it’s probably a lot less than you think.
A diet rich in fruit, vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins and some whole grains will serve you best in terms of sustainable weight loss and health. Combined with a consistent exercise routine, you’ll experience sustained weight loss and weight maintenance once you reach your goal weight.
Sleep, stress and work
Losing weight will be much harder if you’re chronically stressed, sleep-deprived or overworked.
The truth is, nutrition and exercise are only two components of a healthy life that can lead to weight loss. While important, too strong of a focus on nutrition and exercise can cause you to overlook other factors that are just as important: sleep and stress management.
Depending on supplements
I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but that fat burner supplement in your medicine cabinet isn’t going to do the work for you. While certain supplements may help you reach your weight loss goals, you have to work to make your supplements work.
Click here to read more about the reasons you’re not losing weight.
