5 Reasons Why You Don't Lose Weight

Losing weight can be a difficult proposition for most of us. There are many factors that contribute to making a difficult situation even harder: physical factors, such as injuries; lifestyle issues, like a demanding job or school schedule; family issues, like having children or caring for a relative. Or even mental issues, such as depression, can keep you from achieving your weight loss desires.

These issues need to be addressed before you begin any weight loss program. Reach out to others, such as your doctor or relatives, to help you get started. But once you are on a program, don't let the following 5 things sabotage your success:

1) You Eat Too Much

Old habits are hard to break. And temptation is all around us! Most of us who are overweight got there simply by consuming more calories than we burn in a day. Conversely, if we burn more calories than we consume, we'll shed the excess pounds. Skip the extra slice of pie. Don't go to the buffet at lunch. Your body will love you for it!!

2) You Eat The Wrong Kinds Of Food

Get plenty of fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are digested slowly, so they leave you feeling satisfied longer. Heart-healthy fats, like those in olive oil, nuts, and fish, are doctor recommended. So is calcium from green, leafy vegetables and dairy products. Stay away from foods high in sodium and sugar. And soda needs to be cut back on, if not eliminated, for you to be successful.

3)You Don't Get Any Exercise

Though it's possible to lose weight without exercise, it will take a lot longer. Cardiovascular exercise, in combination with some form of strength training, is the quickest way to boost your metabolism and burn fat. See your doctor or a personal trainer before you start any exercise program. You want to avoid injury.

4) You Are Not Getting Quality Sleep

Research has shown that many overweight people don't sleep well. If you're not getting regular, good sleep, you will feel sluggish, and your body will crave high carb, high sugar foods for energy. If insomnia is an issue, ask your doctor if a melatonin supplement might benefit you. Also, check your mattress. Is it time to replace it?

5) You Are Not Setting Goals

Goal-setting may be the most important factor in successful weight loss. Use the SMART acronym for setting your goals--make them Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time Bound. With out setting a goal, you will remain mired in the "wish" stage, and never get started on true progress. Make sure to write down your goals.

By avoiding the 5 pitfalls above, you will give yourself a real boost in achieving lasting weight loss.

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Article by: Brad Schuh