Are you a woman over 35, doing all the things you think you should be doing but the scale isn’t budging? Things like reading all the labels, meal prepping, eating health(ish), and doing more workouts? You’re not alone. So many women face similar challenges due to factors that may seem beyond their control. But hey, don’t stress – there are things you can control, and we are getting into today and offering some simple things you can do now to help you achieve the results you desire.
Unbalanced Hormones
Hormones play a vital role in regulating metabolism and appetite. When they become imbalanced, weight loss efforts can be hindered. Here’s how:
- Insulin: High insulin levels, often from a diet high in sugars and refined carbs, can lead to insulin resistance.
- Cortisol: Chronic stress can elevate cortisol levels, promoting fat storage, especially around the stomach region.
- Leptin and Ghrelin: Imbalances in these hunger hormones can disrupt appetite signals, leading to overeating and weight gain.
- Thyroid Hormones: Thyroid imbalances, like hypothyroidism, can slow metabolism.
- Estrogen and Progesterone: Fluctuations in sex hormones can affect weight regulation, particularly in women.
To improve hormonal balance and support weight loss, start with the following but now the other tips can help too:
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Minimize processed foods, sugars, and refined carbs to stabilize blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support detoxification and hormone balance. Limit alcohol and caffeine intake, as they can disrupt hormone levels and contribute to dehydration.
Metabolic Health
Age-related metabolic slowdown and years of dieting can make it harder to burn energy the way you once did.
Move Your Body: You can start to increase your metabolism with a 20 min power walk everyday or another type of zone 2 cardio. Cardio 2 zone is anything that you can do to get your heart rate up while still holding a conversation. Gardening, cleaning, biking count too!
Stress Overload
Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, leading to increased appetite, abdominal fat accumulation amongst other things.
Stress Reduction Techniques: manage stress through breathing and relaxation techniques. Try some meditation or yoga and if you’re not prioritizing self-care activities, start today.
Gut Health Imbalance
An imbalance in gut bacteria can contribute to inflammation and weight gain.
Restore Gut Health: with a science backed cleanse (ask me how) Eat fermented foods- like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha contain beneficial probiotics. Prebiotics are types of fiber that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Foods rich in prebiotics include garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, and oats. Aim to include these foods regularly into your diet to help improve your gut health.
Sleep Deprivation
Are you sleeping enough? Inadequate sleep disrupts hormonal balance, metabolism amongest other things making weight loss challenging.
Quality Sleep Practices: Create a sleep routine. Go to bed at the same time and wake up at the same time everyday. Power off all devices an hour before you go to sleep- or invest in some good blue blocking glasses. Make sure your room is cool, totally dark and quiet.
By becoming aware of some of things that could be stopping or slowing down your weight loss efforts and taking action today you will start to feel your clothes will fit better. With dedication and consistency, you can make progress towards a healthier, happier you and achieve your weight loss goals. You’ve Got This!
Here is another resource with a few things (not mention in this blog post) to help you reach your goals: “Discover the 5 Hidden Keys to Simple, Healthy & Permanent Weight Loss” here.