The start of another year is here again. People will start listing new goals and changes they would like to achieve for another year. Regardless of the time of the year, one of the most popular goals is improving one’s health and physique. Those who are overweight try to shed some pounds to try and achieve a healthier weight. However, goals like this are easier to list than to reach.
Despite the hard work, dedication, and different weight loss programs they have tried, some people simply do not lose weight no matter how much they try. Instead of being too hard on themselves, these people should understand that there may be other explanations for why losing weight is such a struggle.
If you are one of these people, know that there are many possible reasons behind this, and here are some that you should know.
4 Possible Reasons Some People Find It Hard to Lose Weight
1. Your Hunger Hormones Are Imbalanced
Your body has five main hormones that control your hunger. However, if these hormones do not function properly, your appetite will begin to increase. As a result, you’re likely to eat more than you should. That can cause you to gain too much weight, making losing weight harder for you.
If this is the case, you should see a doctor to learn if these hormonal hunger problems can be treated. Some of the natural ways you can restore balance to your hunger hormones are by increasing your intake of dietary fiber and protein and reducing your intake of processed carbohydrates.
2. Your Thyroid Is Not Functioning Well
Another possible reason losing weight is so difficult for you is that your thyroid is not functioning correctly. Your thyroid is a hormone that plays a significant role in regulating your body temperature, metabolism, and even your heart rate.
When the thyroid gland is not working well, this can cause your metabolism to slow down, and your body will not be able to burn enough calories anymore. As a result, you will gain weight instead of losing it.
3. You Have Chronic Inflammation
Just like thyroid, chronic inflammation is an issue that can also make it harder for you to lose weight. It happens because chronic inflammation increases your body’s appetite, which makes you eat more than you should. With this increase, you can gain weight quickly.
You can see what causes chronic inflammation of your body and then reduce the inflammation by eating more anti-inflammatory foods. You can also treat some of your chronic inflammation by doing specific physical exercises.
4. You Have an Obese Gut Microbiome
Your gut microbiome is a collection of good and bad bacteria in your gut. They aid in breaking down your food into nutrients your body can use. When you have an unbalanced microbiome, you gain weight easily.
Bacteria that are good for your gut can produce hormones and neurotransmitters to improve your mood. However, bad bacteria produce hormones that can cause you to crave sugary and high-calorie foods. As a result, you will quickly gain weight if you do not balance your gut microbiome.
Final Thoughts on Why You are Not Losing Weight
Losing weight can be tough for some people, especially if they do not know what stands in their way of achieving their weight loss goals. If you are struggling to lose weight, work with an expert to identify what stands in your way. Once you figure this out, you can solve the problem and find it easier to lose weight.
Weigh to Wellness offers a weight loss program in Birmingham, Alabama. Our program is overseen by board-certified medical professionals with over 25 years of experience in weight management. Contact us today to learn how we can personalize a plan for you.