When most people think about the best ways to lose weight, diet and exercise are the first things that come to mind. If you’ve been trying to lose weight through diet and exercise alone and aren’t seeing any progress, it’s understandable that you want to give up and throw in the towel. After all, what’s the point of restricting your diet and putting forth the effort to exercise if it all results in nothing?
What many people don’t realize, is that you’ve got to take care of yourself as a whole along with diet and exercise to see real weight-loss progress. If you’re not getting enough sleep and are still making poor choices when it comes to nutrition, then you won’t become healthier, and you won’t lose weight.
Are you experiencing difficulties with weight loss? Here are five shocking reasons as to why you’re probably not losing weight.
1. You’re choosing foods labeled as “low-calorie”
Marketers know what weight-conscious consumers like to see on packaging, and it’s phrases such as “low-calorie,” “fat-free,” and “low-fat.” However, foods labeled with these phrases often make up for the lack of calories by adding extra sodium and chemical additives, which won’t get you anywhere with improved health or weight loss. Plus, since these foods often taste “lighter,” you’re probably still going to overeat. Instead of choosing the low-fat option, go for the regular version and limit portion sizes.
2. You only do cardio, and no weight-training
Cardio exercise is great for heart health, but if you want to lose both inches and pounds, you’ve got to add weight-training to your workout routine. Weight-training will tighten and tone your body so you’re not left with loose, flabby skin after undergoing extreme weight loss. Plus, lifting weights will help balance your body’s hormones, and increase your fat-burning rate for up to 24 hours following your workout.
