Are you wondering why you are gaining weight despite trying different diets?

You have heard that “calories in equal calories out”, but that is really not a true statement. You, also, know that eating less and working out more just doesn’t work.

There are several reasons that counting calories doesn’t work. The major reasons that we are going to explore here are:

  • Aging
  • Hormones
  • Sleep
  • Stress
  • Food Sensitivities

 

Aging

As we get older, our metabolism naturally slows down. With age comes more aches and pains, less energy, and more digestive discomfort. This is normal, and not your fault.

 

Hormones

The hormones that control your metabolism are your thyroid hormones. If your thyroid gland is not working properly, you will not be making enough thyroid hormones, which will slow your metabolism and lead to weight gain.

 

It is best to be evaluate by a Functional Medicine practitioner, who will typically look more in depth at your thyroid hormones. Typical doctors don’t understand that looking just at the TSH levels don’t give the full picture. You, also, need to look at Free T4, Free T3, and TPO and TG antibodies.

 

Sleep

Your metabolic rate is influenced by the amount of sleep you get. The less sleep you get, the slower your metabolism will be. Make sure you are getting at least 7-9 hours of sleep a night.

 

Stress

Your adrenal glands, which are small glands located on top of your kidneys, will release cortisol. Cortisol is what is responsible for belly fat. Cortisol levels should be highest in the mornings and tapper off as the day goes on. If you cortisol levels are too high throughout the day, you will put on weight.

Try to incorporate stress reducing activities, such as, yoga or meditation to help keep your cortisol levels down.

 

Food Sensitivities

It is common to have food sensitivities, which are different than food allergies. Food sensitivities can cause many symptoms, but one of them is weight gain. The most are common food sensitivities dairy, gluten, soy, and grains. A common way to find out if you have food sensitivities is to do an elimination diet. Another way is to do a detox that will help to determine which foods you are sensitive to.

It is hard to figure out which food sensitivities on your own. However, I am experienced at helping clients figure out food sensitivities and eliminate their symptoms. I can help you. I have a detox program that will help you to figure out if you have food sensitivities and will, also, aid in weight loss. It Starts on April 9, 2018. You can find out more about my detox program here.