Think you’re getting fatter even though your diet hasn’t changed?

14 Mar Think you’re getting fatter even though your diet hasn’t changed?

You know that you haven’t been eating more food. You know that you haven’t been eating “junkier” food. But…you see that you’re still gaining weight.

Is this for real?

Yes. You are not imagining things.

This is why…

You’ve probably heard of the “calories in, calories out” philosophy. I believe it’s an overly simplistic concept regarding body weight.

There’s got to be more to this whole story than just what you’re putting into your body, right?

Your metabolic rate certainly plays a role and it is affected by things like your activity level, body composition, what you’re eating, and even how you’ve dieted in the past.

But, let’s dive deeper than the typical “eat less and exercise more” advice. There are indeed some less obvious factors which can contribute to gaining weight even though your diet hasn’t changed.

Some possible underlying reasons:

• Aging
• Hormones
• Sleep
• Stress

Aging

“Things happen” as we get older.  People may experience weight gain, lower energy levels, more digestive discomfort, as well as aches and pains. This is not to say that it’s all just a “normal” part of aging, but it’s certainly a common occurrence.

Aging in both men and women can result in hormonal changes which contribute to the loss of some lean muscle mass. Increases and changes in fat storage in our bodies can also result.

It is important to note that these hormonal changes are very common and not one bit your fault.

More about hormones

Your thyroid is the “chief operating officer” for your metabolism and can be a significant contributing factor when it comes to weight gain.  Moreover, many things can affect your thyroid and disrupt its normal control over your metabolism.

When your thyroid gets thrown off course, producing fewer hormones, your metabolism can slow down.  When this slow-down occurs, you can gain weight even though you’re eating exactly the same way you always have.

Here’s a tip: Talk with your doctor about getting your hormones tested.  By the way, I also included a thyroid-friendly recipe at the end of this post…you can try it out!

Sleep

There’s a lot of research to show that sleep influences your metabolic rate. The general consensus is to get 7-9 hours of sleep every night to help avoid weight gain.

It’s true!  Lack of sleep is associated with weight gain.

As you age, perhaps you’ve noticed that it’s getting more difficult to get a good night’s sleep.

Who ever thought you can sleep off your weight?

Here’s a tip: Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep every night.  A great place to start is to develop a calming routine before bedtime. Consider a hot bath, a cup or herbal tea, or even just a minute or two of reflection – think about what you’re grateful for before you lay down to sleep.

Stress

It seems to surround us!  There are simply too many things that can stir up stress responses in your body.

When those stress hormones are constantly elevated, it makes it really hard to sustain healthy habits or maintain a healthy weight.

While you may not be able to eliminate your stressors, you can try to change your response to stress.

Here’s a tip: Try yoga or meditation. Maybe even look into those new adult coloring books that are all the rage these days?

Conclusion:

There are many factors that can affect your body weight, even if you’re eating just as you always have. Aging, stress, sleep, and hormones are all interconnected and can all contribute to weight gain despite your food intake and physical activity remaining the same. For step-by-step guidance on implementing some of the tips I’ve suggested here, try the 7-Day SIMPLY STUNNING Lifestyle Program for FREE by completing the form below. FREE meal plan and workout plan included!

Recipe (with thyroid-friendly iodine): Seaweed Sushi Bowl
Serves 2.

1 cup cooked rice
1 avocado (thinly sliced)
1 green onion (chopped)
½ cucumber (diced)
½ red pepper (thinly sliced)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
2 tablespoons dried seaweed (arame, wakame, or crumbled nori sheets)
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 tablespoons gluten-free tamari sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ garlic clove, minced
dash salt & pepper

Directions:

1. Split the first 7 ingredients between 2 bowls.
2. Mix the remaining ingredients to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the sushi bowls.
4. Serve & enjoy!

Tip: This is a great meal to take on-the-go. Keep the dressing in a separate container so you can give it a shake before pouring it over your sushi bowl.

Stay Fit! Be Happy!
Dr. Venus

References
www.precisionnutrition.com/sleep-stress-and-fat-loss
www.authoritynutrition.com/lose-weight-in-menopause/

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only.  Information provided on this web site is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice and is not intended to replace a complete consultation with a physician, nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Dr. Venus Ramos is not responsible or liable for any advice, course of treatment, diagnosis, or any other information, services or products that you obtain through this web site.