You are positive that you’re not eating more food or “junkier” food but you’re still gaining weight.

Is this possible?

Yes! You are NOT crazy!

And here’s why.

We both know that the whole “calories in, calories out” argument is an overly simplistic view of weight.

There’s definitely more to the story than just what you’re eating, right?

A lot of this comes right down to your metabolic rate which is affected by things like your activity level, history of dieting, body composition, and even when you eat.

But let’s go beyond the “eat less and exercise more” advice and dive into some of the less obvious underlying reasons why you may be gaining weight even though you’re eating the same.

Things like:

Aging;
Hormones;
Sleep;
Stress.

Aging

Funny things happen the older we get. People commonly experience lower energy levels, more digestive discomfort, weight gain, as well as aches and pains.

Aging can result in hormonal changes for both men and women. And these can contribute to loss of some lean muscle mass, as well as increases and changes in fat storage on our bodies.

The good thing is that this is very common and there is a lot you can do to minimize these changes. It’s not your fault one bit.

Hormones

Your thyroid is the master controller of your metabolism and can be a massive contributor to your weight gain. Thyroid disease is epidemic and one of the most under-diagnosed and under-treated conditions we see. It leaves many suffering needlessly.

There are several things that can affect your thyroid and throw it off course.

When your thyroid gets off course and produces fewer hormones, your metabolism slows down. When your metabolism slows down you can gain weight, even though you’re eating the same way you always have.

Your thyroid effects every cell in your body. Some common symptoms of thyroid dysfunction are: weight gain, fatigue, forgetfulness, constipation, depression, loss of hair, cold intolerance, muscle cramps, joint pain, infertility and dry skin.

Pro Tip: If you think you might be struggling with a sluggish thyroid, talk with your doctor about having your hormones tested. You will want to ask for a full thyroid panel in order to know if your thyroid is struggling. The “TSH lab value” alone, isn’t enough. Go here to read more on this topic.

Also, you may want to try the thyroid-friendly recipe that I created for you at the end of this post.

Sleep

There is plenty of research that shows the influence that sleep has on your metabolic rate.

And as we age it can become harder and harder to get a good night’s sleep.

The general consensus is to get 7-9 hours of sleep every night to help avoid weight gain.

It’s true! Not getting enough sleep or getting poor-quality sleep adversely affects hormones that make you hungry and store more fat.

Who ever thought you can sleep off your weight?

Pro Tip: Try to get at least 7 hours of sleep every night. The first place to start is by implementing a calming, before-bedtime routine.

Stress

It seems to be everywhere! There are so many things that can cause stress responses in your body.

And you know that stress hormones are not going to help you sustain healthy habits or maintain a healthy weight, right?

Stress hormones play a big role in weight gain and chronic disease by increasing cortisol. Chronically elevated cortisol puts our body in “fight or flight” mode leading to high blood sugar and insulin levels which lead to increased belly fat.

Stress effects our sleep quality, which we know can negatively effect our health and waist line.

Elevated cortisol causes muscle loss and interferes with optimal thyroid functioning and metabolism as well.

While you can’t necessarily change your stressors you can try to adjust your stress response to them.

Pro Tip: Try meditation or yoga or even mindful eating. Or, you could try those new adult coloring books that are all the rage now!

I have found this breathing exercise to be really helpful when I am feeling stressed or can’t get to sleep. Go here..

Conclusion:

There are lots of factors that can affect your weight, and they are different for everyone. Aging, hormones, stress, and sleep are all interconnected with each other and can all contribute to weight gain, even if you’re eating the same way you always have.

I am passionate about supporting my clients who are struggling with thyroid, stubborn weight and digestive issues. If you need extra support just sign up for a free health breakthrough call.

I’d love to support you in getting to the root of your personal health and weight concerns.

Recipe (Thyroid friendly iodine): Seaweed Sushi Bowl

Serves 2

1 cup cooked rice
1 avocado (thinly sliced)
½ cucumber (diced)
½ red pepper (thinly sliced)
1 green onion (chopped)
2 tablespoons dried seaweed (arame, wakame, or crumbled nori sheets)
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
3 tablespoons rice vinegar
3 tablespoons gluten-free tamari sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon sesame oil
½ garlic clove
dash salt and pepper

Split the first seven ingredients into two bowls.

Mix the rest of the ingredients together to make the dressing.

Pour the dressing over the sushi bowls.

Serve & Enjoy!

Tip: This is a great lunch to take on the go. Keep dressing in a separate container so you can give it a shake before adding it onto the sushi bowl.

References:

https://authoritynutrition.com/lose-weight-in-menopause/

http://www.precisionnutrition.com/sleep-stress-and-fat-loss