This time of year typically has us reflecting on the current status of our life – and our goals to improve. Among the most popular New Year’s resolutions are losing weight, improving health, and/or improving level of fitness. Unfortunately, while most people start the year inspired, many quickly find themselves unmotivated and off track – especially if they aren’t seeing results.
The thing is, we often don’t know why we aren’t seeing consistent results. While nutrition and exercise are the cornerstone of any weight loss journey, there are many hidden obstacles that can impede progress along the way.
Stress can be a major obstacle to weight loss due to its effects on your hormones.In particular, stress increases cortisol, the hormone associated with stubborn belly fat. Increased cortisol can contribute to cravings and digestive issues, as well as decreases serotonin levels, i.e. the “feel good” neurotransmitter. It also breaks down muscle, making for an all around negative impact on your goals as well as your overall health.
Lack of sleep is another hidden culprit that can wreck your weight-loss efforts. Did you know that not getting enough sleep can make it harder to reach your weight loss goals? This is because the cortisol and ghrelin levels increase when we don’t get enough sleep – ghrelin increases hunger, and cortisol is the stress hormone linked to stubborn belly fat. What’s more, lack of sleep has also been found to negatively impact both sugar resistance and the amount of fat our body stores.
Yo-yo dieting and/or restrictive diets are another roadblock to weight loss – and a healthy metabolism. If you’re trying to lose weight, it is as important to not under eat as it is to not overeat. If you need help with a nutrition plan, contact a Fitness Xpert at (407) 682-3116 for custom guidance.
Getting enough exercise – or rather, not getting enough, is another no no if you’re trying to lose weight. Unfortunately, the standard American lifestyle is overly sedentary. What’s more, when it comes to fitness the majority of people have no idea where to begin. That’s where we come in; our expert personal trainers and fitness classes offer the support, knowledge, and guidance you need to reach your fitness and weight loss goals – safely and efficiently.
Nutritional deficiencies can lead to unwanted weight gain, or even slow weight loss. Due largely to the Standard America Diet, many people are deficient in vital nutrients including vitamin D, vitamin B12 and B6, calcium, and magnesium. These deficiencies can impact everything from cravings, metabolism, and energy to contributing to greater health issues like heart disease, high cholesterol, depression, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, cancer, dementia, and fatigue.
Need more help with your health, weight, and fitness goals? Contact us to learn how we can help you get on track, including private gym membership options, personal training, group fitness classes, and more!
Altamonte Springs Personal Training and Private Gym – Conveniently located just minutes from Longwood, Winter Springs, Casselberry, Apopka, and the Greater Orlando area!