How many times have you asked yourself “why can’t I lose weight?” And how many times, despite your efforts, you haven’t dropped a single gram? In today’s article we explain to you what can be the main causes that don’t allow you to lose weight as you would like!
Not enough fiber
Foods rich in fiber, as well as improving digestion, help to reduce the absorption of fats and sugars. Stick to soluble fibers such as those found in fruit, legumes and vegetables, as well as choosing whole grains, which have a lower glycemic index and help you feel fuller for longer.
Not drinking enough water
Hydrating properly is essential, especially if you are trying to lose the kilos! Water is not only beneficial for the entire body but also helps eliminate toxins that tend to accumulate in body tissue.
Here are 6 reasons why drinking water can help you lose weight:
- It helps occupy space in the stomach, promoting a feeling of fullness and thus reducing hunger.
- It can help you burn more calories by increasing your body’s energy expenditure
- It helps remove body waste such as urine and faeces
- It is a calorie-free alternative to energy drinks and sugary juices.
- Burns the fats and carbohydrates stored by the body.
- Reduces muscle cramps and fatigue, improving your physical training.
Although the amount of water to drink during the day depends on many factors (age, sex, weight), the general rule for women is about 2.7 litres per day. Always remember to drink before, during and after your Curves workout.
A lack of strength training
Strength Training not only helps increase muscle mass but also burn fat quickly. Even when you’re not training! In fact, during the 72 hours following each workout, your body continues to consume energy to repair micro-injuries caused by physical exercise.
Not enough sleep
When we are tired our diet tends to suffer too, relieving stress on unhealthy snacks and convenient food! The reason is not only linked to our desire for “comfort food”, but it is a physical need, and more and more studies are showing that the tendency to gain weight is closely linked to the lack of sleep.
Sleep is important because:
- Sleep regulates the production of leptin, the satiety hormone
- You skip the Rem phase, the final one in which you burn more calories
- We are more attracted to fatty and caloric foods
Physical activity can actually help you sleep better too!
Irregular eating pattern
Snacking between meals can help you regularise the amount of food you eat during the day, as well as avoiding hunger attacks. The important thing is that they are healthy and balanced!
If you are looking for inspiration, here are some healthy snacks ideas – Healthy Snacks: 4 Quick and Easy Ideas for a Light Break
Eat more protein
Proteins are essential to increase energy consumption and promote the development of muscle mass. This is why they play an important role in your diet if you want to lose the extra pounds! To supplement them in the diet, try fish (tuna and salmon), legumes (lentils, chickpeas, etc.) and dried fruits such as walnuts, almonds and chia seeds as alternatives to red meat.
If you want to find out how to lose weight with the Curves program, book a free consultation now or contact your nearest Curves Club.