Why Am I Not Losing Weight?

You’re exercising regularly, cutting back on carbs, drinking constant amounts of water, and focusing on healthy homecooked meals. But despite your best efforts, you’re still not losing weight.

When this happens, it can be tempting to start a crash diet or cut out entire food groups in the hope of losing weight quicker, but drastically cutting calories and depriving your body of essential vitamins and minerals is not a good long-term approach to losing weight. Not only can this result in muscle loss instead of body fat loss, but it also can’t be sustained forever.

However, there are ways to make your weight loss more efficient. From eating enough of the right foods to setting realistic goals, we have rounded up some of our best tips to keep your weight loss journey on track in a safe, sustainable way.

Focus on nourishing, wholesome foods

Eating the right foods in balance keeps your body well-nourished and fuller for longer. Enjoy seasonal fruit and vegetables and make protein a staple of your meals. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of eggs and avocado instead of toast. The protein and healthy fats will nourish you for a good few hours. Then, eat a light lunch before dinner, consisting of protein, fat and a healthy carbohydrate like whole grain rice.

And don’t forget to indulge now and again. It’s essential to keep the mind happy. Whether it’s a portion of chips or a small chocolate bar, keep the amount moderate and balance out the rest of your week’s diet by focusing on wholesome, nutritious foods.

Set realistic goals

It’s what you do consistently, not sporadically, that will help you lose weight. Slow, steady and consistent is the key to sustainable, healthy fat loss. Don’t expect changes to happen overnight. Take pictures, measurements and weigh yourself once a week to keep motivated and on track.

Pick an exercise that you enjoy

Choose a form of exercise that makes you feel happy and commit to at least 20 minutes every day. Is it a jog in the countryside, or cycling? Perhaps you love HIIT classes? Or is yoga more your cup of tea? There are endless forms of exercise to choose from. Take the time to think about what you actually enjoy doing so it doesn’t feel like a chore when it comes around.

Don’t skimp on protein

Not only does protein fill you up, meaning you’ll feel less hungry throughout the day, but it also contributes to healthy muscle, skin, and bones. However, it’s essential to consider the type of protein you’re consuming because not all protein is created equal.

Over-consuming animal protein can lead to weight gain in the long run. Instead, opt for a good amount of plant-based protein, which you can consume in more significant quantities throughout the day. Think nuts, seeds and whole grains, which all make for a tasty, filling snack.

Keep hydration levels topped up

The connection between weight loss and hydration is not a myth. It can help suppress your appetite, boost your metabolism, and maintain healthy digestion, all of which can greatly help your journey. Aim for at least two litres of water a day and set small goals, like drinking a litre before lunch to help keep you on track.

Prioritise sleep

Studies have found that sleep deprivation is associated with increased levels of the ‘hunger hormone’ – and therefore, increased food intake. Of course, it can be easier said than done but try to aim for at least seven hours a night to avoid unnecessary hunger pangs and a refreshed mind.

Embrace a helping hand

If you have a BMI of 27 or above and are struggling to kickstart your weight loss journey, there are options available. The Elipse gastric balloon is a non-surgical alternative to the gastric band. It’s swallowed in the form of a pill before inflating to an apple’s size once it reaches the stomach, making you feel like you’re already full. Patients can expect to lose between 10 to 15kg in just four months before it automatically deflates and passes naturally through the gastrointestinal tract.

But it’s much more than just weight loss. The Elipse is just one element of a much broader picture. Yes, it helps to kickstart weight loss, but more importantly, it builds a solid foundation for a much healthier and more fulfilled lifestyle. Over the four months, you’ll work closely with a nutritionist to develop and implement healthier lifestyle habits to ensure lasting results even after the balloon has long passed.

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Disclaimer: Please be aware that results and benefits may vary from patient to patient taking into consideration factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history.