Five Reasons Why You Are Not Reaching Your Health Goals

Five Reasons Why You Are Not Reaching Your Health Goals

Fueling the journey. A colorful assortment of whole foods promoting vitality and supporting health for women over 40

I overheard some women talking the other day while I was in the Sauna about how they are not losing weight and they work out all the time and eat good 80% of the time. One was working with a trainer so I didn’t want to interject but there are many possible reasons this may be happening.

1.) The Stress- Cortisol Connection. Stress is an inevitable part of life, but when it becomes chronic, it can wreak havoc on the body and weight loss efforts. When cortisol levels are elevated for extended periods of time, it can create blood sugar regulation and promote fat storage, particularly around the abdominal area.

Solution: Prioritize stress reduction techniques like meditation or deep breathing.

2.) Working out too much or even doing too much of a particular exercise, like High Intensity or Cardio. This comes from trying to chase a calorie burn rather than training the body for what is going on in your life. For example, if you have a big deadline at work that you are really stressed about, this isn’t the time to go high intensity at the gym when your cortisol levels are already elevated.

Solution: Instead focus on movement like weight training with longer rest periods, yoga, or walking outdoors.

3.) Hormonal Changes. Hormonal fluctuations can impact the metabolism and body composition. Estrogen levels decline, affecting how the body stores and burns fat. This shift can lead to weight gain.

Solution: Focus on eating a well-balanced, whole foods diet like lean protein, healthy fats, and fruits and vegetables (fiber). Engage in strength training over cardio sessions. Building lean body mass can help burn more fat and keep your bones healthy.

4.) Protein Intake. Protein is crucial for weight loss, bone health, and metabolism. As we age, our bodies become less efficient at utilizing protein, leading to muscle loss and a slower metabolic rate.

Solution: Include lean protein sources at every meal, like poultry, lean meat, seafood, beans, and nuts. Consider supplementing with a high-quality protein shake to help meet daily protein requirements.

5.)Shift the Focus from Scale to Health. Instead of fixating solely on the number on the scale, shift your focus to overall health, vitality, and energy.

Solution: Set realistic goals that extend beyond weight loss, such as achieving a certain level of fitness, improving flexibility, getting outside in the sun, or increasing your rep range or weight that you are lifting.

Weight loss for women over 40 involves a multifaceted approach that addresses physical, emotional, and lifestyle factors. By prioritizing stress management, ensuring adequate protein intake, navigating hormonal changes, consuming well-balanced, whole food, and nutrient-dense meals, and good sleep hygiene, you will achieve your health goals. I hope these five reasons why you are not reaching your health goals, provides some help on your health journey.