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What is preventing my weight loss?

A common issue facing many exercisers is that, even after having committed to a regimen of nutrition and exercise, the goals of weight loss and muscle gain just aren't lining up. You'll ask "why am I not losing weight?" and the answers seem elusive. If you have a wellness coach or a trainer whom can coach you, then talk to him or her about the issue. Just remember that this process is challenging and it's not your fault if its not working immediately.
Here's a few possible things to consider:
Talk to your coach or trainer. Share your concerns.

  • Adjust the meal planning - your meals may be leaving you hungry, and that's a recipe for disaster. Review your meal plan with your coach to see if there's adequate protein, fat, or hydration in your plan
  • Exercising too often or too hard - completing a challenging routine may make you feel accomplished, but if your metabolic rate is getting too high, then your body will signal the need to consume more food for energy. Start with monitoring your heart rate to stay in the 60-80% zone of heart rate reserve.
  • Anxiety or Stress - Stress fires up the adrenal glands, which increases our cortisol levels in the body. The excitement and elevated heart rate call out for something to help calm the body down. Eating is one of those things triggered to lower cortisol levels. You know what can help? Dark chocolate. It can raise serotonin levels to help you relax and possibly sleep better too.
  • Medications -  talk to your coach about your medications again. It may be time to schedule another appointment to talk to your doctor if weight gain is a side effect of a prescribed medication. 
In all of these situations, try to share with your coach or trainer what's bothering you. Try to come up with a plan that works better for you (such as one I suggested in a previous post). The best plans are ones that you enjoy completing and feel like you are a part of the process. 
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