The Weight Loss Quandary

March 20, 2016 – 

The global question is how to lose weight; with the rise of obesity all around us (in some cases literally) we really should know what factors are keeping us fat. Here are some factors to consider:

Each of these are ‘article worthy’ on their own and in some cases common sense. For certain, when combined they are a mouthful indeed. So let me bullet point a few of the most obvious factors and reasons you just might be having a problem losing weight.

Metabolism is defined with some big words like ‘biotransforming molecules’, in more basic terms metabolism means “activity.” The burning of calories inside your body which incredibly transforms to give you the energy to burn calories outside the body with exercise. Don’t eat less, move more … wish I had a dollar for every time I have said that!

Appetite is fairly obvious, combined with the law of thermodynamics where calories in equals calories out, if we eat too many and don’t burn too many these delicious calories store as future energy (aka fat). Portion control is key.

Energy is derived from a variety of sources but paramount for energy is food. You are what you eat. Poor quality foods do not provide great energy. Twinkies are bad nutrition; kale is a much better choice.

Water is your body’s favorite clear, colorless, odorless, tasteless, liquid, H2O! The lack of water in the body sends a very distinct signal to the brain that you are dehydrating and your body starts saving calories/energy to protect you from harm. I have said this many times as you know, “water is your friend!”

Hormones play a large role as they are chemical messengers that are secreted into the blood to direct bodily functions like temperature, thirst, mood, growth, and the list goes on. When these signals are out of sync your body gets very confused and the signals may be working against you rather than for you. The aging process can be tricky indeed. At some point medical advice may be considered.

Stress has an immediate effect on your body. In the short term, that’s not necessarily a bad thing, but chronic stress puts your health at risk. Examples are headaches, insomnia, high blood pressure, heartburn, immune system response, low backache, depression and weight gain. Stress is a silent monster! Get a grip on it and find your joy, please.

So there you have it, understand how all of these factors are functioning in your life and maybe, just maybe you will have solved the weight loss quandary. In my experience, exercise is the life long answer.
In good health,

Bob

“With coarse food to eat, cold water to drink, and the bended arm as a pillow, happiness may still exist.” – Confucius