fbpx

4 reasons why diets fail and how to beat them!

Oct 31, 2017 | Diet, Fitness, Nutrition

If you view dieting as a constant uphill struggle for weight loss, you are not alone.

Losing weight is one of the top resolutions made every year, yet only 20% of people achieve successful weight loss and maintenance.

Here are 4 main reasons why diets fail. Recognise what they are and you’re a step closer to making sure you’re a weight loss winner. Here’s to Summer!

FAIL No 1: Underestimating calories consumed

WIN: Aim to keep tabs on your daily calorie intake by making an accurate, detailed note of everything that you eat, and ensure you regulate portions properly by using measuring cups and utensils when you cook. When eating out, make sure you check the nutritional information of your meals as restaurant meals are higher in calories.

FAIL No 2: Overestimating activity and calories burned

WIN: Rev up your metabolism by aiming for some moderate to vigorous exercise most days of the week – it doesn’t always have to be dynamic, and could be as simple as walking more and faster. I always advise clients to be training a minimum of 4 times per week. Invest in a pedometer to track your steps, avoid taking public transport where possible, and always walk up the stairs rather than using the lift or escalator.

FAIL No 3: Poor Timing of Meals

WIN: You need a steady stream of glucose throughout the day to maintain optimal energy and to prevent metabolism from slowing down. Try to eat breakfast within an hour of waking up or within an hour after your morning training session if you are an early morning exercise. Then top up your energy by eating a healthy snack or meal every 3 or 4 hours throughout the day. It will keep hunger pangs at bay, too.

FAIL No 4: Inadequate sleep

WIN: A good night’s sleep is vital to ensure well-being and to keep your waistline in check. Studies have shown that people who get fewer than six hours of sleep have higher levels of ghrelin, which is a hormone that stimulates appetite, particularly for high-carbohydrate and high-calorie foods. Aim for at least 7 hours’ sleep a night, and if you have trouble sleeping don’t eat a large meal close to bedtime as it will wake up your body and give you an unnecessary energy boost too.

You May Also Like…

Blood Sugar – the Key to Healthy Ageing

Blood Sugar – the Key to Healthy Ageing

Working with thousands of women over my career there is one thing we all have in common, we age and we want to fight the ageing process as hard as we can with a healthy lifestyle through exercise. 

read more