6 Surprising Facts About Weight Loss
Most people seeking to lose weight may believe a common sense regimen that involves reducing calories, making healthier meal choices, and exercising regularly will do the trick. While all of these tactics are great and can definitely help you drop pounds, there are a few things to know about losing weight that may surprise you.
As you embark on your weight loss journey, keep the following six surprising facts about weight loss in mind to make sure you’re covering all the bases and so that you don’t get discouraged.
- Scale Numbers Can Be Deceiving
Most people judge their weight loss success by the number they see on the scale. The truth is that number can trick us because it’s not measuring just fat, but our muscles, organs, and the water in our body as well. It also changes throughout the day. That is why most diet experts will tell you to weigh yourself at the same time each day—preferably in the morning after you urinate and before you eat breakfast.
A higher number on the scale doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve gained weight; you could have gained muscle. Instead, gauge your progress by measuring your waist, hips, and other areas. When these numbers inch down, it means your diet program is working.
- Get Enough Zzzzzs
Have you ever gotten the hungry horrors after a sleep-deprived night? You can thank the fluctuation of two hormones that normally regulate your appetite that get out of whack when you haven’t gotten enough sleep. Your body is also crying out for extra calories to help you get through the day.
Researchers have found that there’s a connection between sleep deprivation and being overweight. And unfortunately, not getting enough sleep means you’re more likely to skip your gym visit. So aim to get a regular bedtime routine established and follow these tips for a better night’s sleep to prevent the pounds from piling on.
- Stress Can Cause Weight Gain
Stress causes cortisone levels in our body to spike which feeds our cravings and causes weight gain. Many people also turn to food to deal with stress, which can pack on weight.
Seek healthier ways of dealing with stress, such as exercising, yoga, taking up a hobby, talking to friends, or starting a journal.
- You Need to Consume Enough Calories
It sounds like common sense that cutting calories and portion sizes can help us lose weight. But it’s important not to cut them too much, or that can make our body want to hold onto fat because it thinks we’re starving it. You should also strive to choose foods that are nutrient dense and provide enough protein, fiber, and vitamins.
In order to keep metabolism functioning properly, calculate how many calories you need to maintain your current weight based on your height, and age. Then cut about 10% of your daily recommended amount of calorie intake or exercise regularly to burn some of it off. This technique will help you lose weight at a slow and steady rate.
- Not Everyone Can Keep Weight Off Long-Term
At least one study found that a whopping 90% of people who lose weight will regain it at some point during their life. Losing and keeping weight off requires lifestyle changes, not temporary adjustments to diet and physical activity.
Enlisting the services of a life coach can inspire you to make changes that help you live a better life. That includes making healthy life choices to lose weight and keep it off for good.
- Drinking Too Much Can Prevent Weight Loss
Many people are unaware that alcoholic beverages can contain a lot of calories. A 12-ounce glass of beer contains about 140 calories, the same amount as a serving of potato chips. These also happen to be empty calories that don’t provide many nutritional benefits.
Mixed drinks pack even more calories and often contain sugar. There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a glass of wine or other liquor on occasion, but just keep in mind that consuming several drinks equals a lot of calorie consumption in a short period of time.
Water, on the other hand, contains zero calories and may help control hunger in between meals. Drinking water also keeps you hydrated and assists with several bodily functions.
Keep At It to See Weight Loss Success
As you can see, there’s a bit more to losing weight in addition to counting calories and working out regularly. Above all, try not to stress out too much about your weight loss journey or beat yourself up if you misstep. If you find you’ve overindulged, just return the following day to your diet and exercise program.
For more tips on losing weight or maintaining a healthy one, read our latest health-related posts on our blog!
Source Writer: Julie Ferrell
