You are positive that you're not eating more food or “junkier” food but you're still gaining weight. Is this possible? Yes! You are NOT crazy!
We both know that the whole “calories in, calories out” argument is an overly simplistic view of weight. There's definitely more to the story than just what you're eating, right?
A lot of this comes right down to your metabolic rate which is affected by things like your activity level, history of dieting, body composition, and even what you eat.
And as some of you found out on Friday night at my free Introduction to Intermittent Fasting, when you eat is significant as well.
If you would like to find out more about Intermittent Fasting and how this easy to implement way of eating can help you, please register for my next session, on Zoom this Wednesday, January 13 at NOON.
Some of the less obvious underlying reasons why you may be gaining weight even though you're eating the same.
● Aging
● Hormones
● Sleep
● Stress
Aging
Funny things happen the older we get. People commonly experience lower energy levels, more digestive discomfort, weight gain, as well as aches and pains.
Aging can result in hormonal changes for both men and women. And these can contribute to loss of some lean muscle mass, as well as increases and changes in fat storage on our bodies.
However, those of you who are joining me in the upcoming G.R.I.T. 3 -week anti-aging group starting January 17 will find new ways to counter these common physical changes, and not giving in to the inevitable. We don't have to.
Hormones
Your thyroid is the master controller of your metabolism and can be a massive contributor to your weight gain. There are several things that can affect it and throw it off course.
When your thyroid gets off course and produces fewer hormones your metabolism slows down. And when your metabolism slows down you can gain weight. Even though you're eating the same way you always have. Talk with your doctor about having your hormones tested, full panels. And if you need a wellness coach, who is an expert on the thyroid, let me know and I will connect you.
Sleep
There is plenty of research that shows the influence that sleep has on your metabolic rate.
And as we age it can become harder and harder to get a good night's sleep. 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 linked with weight gain.
Who ever thought you can sleep off your weight? Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep every night. The first place to start is by implementing a calming before bedtime routine. And get those TVs and cellphones out of your bedroom, really! Create an inviting environment for yourself with fresh sheets, a made bed, and perhaps a diffuser emanating a lovely lavender scent. Get the idea?
Stress
It seems to be everywhere! Especially lately.
And you know that stress hormones are not going to help you sustain healthy habits or maintain a healthy weight, right? When we stress cortisol goes into overdrive, creating that belly.
While you can't necessarily change your stressors you can try to adjust your stress response to them. I love this phrase "Does this pertain to me?". When something or someone is stressing me, I silently ask myself this question. And often it doesn't, thereby releasing my attention. Aaaah, no more stress.
There are lots of factors that can affect your weight, even if you're eating the same way you always have. Aging, hormones, stress, and sleep are all interconnected to each other and can all contribute to weight gain, even if you're eating the same way you always have.
As some of you know, we cover much of this in the upcoming G.R.I.T. anti-aging program, which will kick off next week. So excited!
In the meantime enjoy this thyroid friendly meal! Sort of like having sushi, without having to learn how to roll it.
Seaweed Sushi Bowl
Serves 2
1 cup cooked rice
1 avocado (thinly sliced)
½ cucumber (diced)
½ red pepper (thinly sliced)
1 green onion (chopped)
2 tablespoons dried seaweed (arame, wakame, or crumbled nori sheets)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 tablespoons gluten-free tamari sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ garlic clove
dash salt and pepper
Split the first seven ingredients into two bowls.
Mix the rest of the ingredients together to make the dressing.
Pour the dressing over the sushi bowls.