Gaining weight can be a frustrating experience. You may think that you are doing everything right, but the numbers on the scale just keep going up. Ugh, we feel you!
Sometimes, weight gain can be attributed to well-known factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, certain health conditions, or medications. But other times, the reason for weight gain is not so clear. So, let's look at 3 sneaky reasons why you might be gaining weight and how to avoid them.
1. You're snacking too much
We understand the need to have a good snack while binge-watching your favorite Netflix show. We also get that you might want a snack after a stressful work meeting. And of course, you need a snack after coming back from your walk....and another when you take a luxurious bath....and another while talking to your friend on the phone....and another when you meet your old work buddy after several years. Oops. It happens to the best of us!
If you're snacking too much throughout the day, chances are you're consuming more calories than you realize. And those extra calories can quickly add up, leading to weight gain. Even if you're snacking on healthy stuff (such as nuts and protein bars), snacking too much will still lead to weight gain. At this point, it's more about how much you're snacking!
To avoid this, be mindful of how often you're snacking and try to limit yourself to 2-3 snacks per day that are low in calories and high in nutrients. We recommend our yummy Super Fat Burning Gummies and the cult favorite 4-calorie Super Lean Shots which curb unhealthy snack cravings, reduce bloating, and help you feel more full (thus preventing over snacking). These, along with a calorie deficit, should help you avoid weight gain and even shed those stubborn pounds sooner rather than later.
2. You're not getting enough sleep
Not getting enough shut-eye can sabotage your weight loss efforts in multiple ways. First, it can lead to cravings for sugary and high-fat foods. And second, it can cause you to have less energy, making you more likely to be inactive during the day.
Lack of sleep has also been linked to an increase in the stress hormone cortisol, which can lead to weight gain. When you're stressed, your body goes into "survival mode" and starts storing fat. So even if you're eating healthy and exercising regularly, stress can still lead to weight gain.
To avoid this, aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and practice stress-reducing and sleep-inducing activities such as meditation or yoga. Additionally, take our Night Cleanse blend which promotes the body’s restoration process, reduces bloating, and maintains a healthy gut. Need more tips? Check out our 3 hacks for better sleep so that you can snooze like a baby.
3. You're stressed
In addition to increasing cortisol levels, stress can also lead to weight gain in other ways. For example, when you're stressed, you may be more likely to turn to comfort foods that are high in sugar, salt, and fat (and it's not your fault, an increase in cortisol actually increases the appetite!). All of us have had that tub of ice cream after a breakup, haven't we?
Stress can also lead to overeating and eating more often than you normally would. And if you're not careful, those extra calories can quickly add up and lead to weight gain. Research has shown that increased stress and cortisol levels (which also causes higher insulin levels) lead to an accumulation of visceral fat — particularly abdominal fat. Now you know why you're not getting that flatter tummy!
To avoid this sneaky type of weight gain, try to find ways to reduce stress in your life. This might involve simplifying your schedule, delegating tasks, or taking a break from work. You might also want to try relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga. Plus, it's a good idea to reach out to a mental health professional as well.
To accompany your self-care and de-stressing activities, we recommend our Green Cleansing Elixir and 28 Day Ultimate Teatox, which support your gut health, boost your immunity, and help shed those stubborn pounds.
Main Takeaway
Weight gain can be sneaky, but there are ways to avoid it! Be mindful of how often you're snacking (and what you're snacking on), get enough sleep, and reduce stress in your life.
Additionally, try incorporating our detox teas and dietary supplements into your daily activities — from your self-care routine to your post workout recovery — as they will not only help you with healthy weight loss but also provide you with a boost of nutrition.