Losing weight is a tough slog, and even if you are counting calories and doing regular exercise you may not be seeing the results you want.
This is because there are some common things that are actually tampering with your weight loss efforts.
Here are five things you do every day that could be leading to your weight gain:
1. Having less sex than usual
We get it, we all get busy and tired but having less sex than normal means missing out on a regular cardio session.
Nutritionist Dr Marilyn Glenville said: “There has been research to show that having regular sex (once or twice a week) boosts immune function. The researchers measured the level of IgA (immunoglobulin A), an antibody which can help protect us against colds and flu and found that those who had sex regularly each week had a 30% increase in IgA compared to those who either abstained or only had sex once a week.”
Without a healthy immune function, we are more susceptible to sickness and when we’re sick we are less likely to work out which can lead to weight gain.
2. Skipping breakfast
Missing out on breakfast can wreck havoc with your blood sugar levels and in turn make you crave something sweet come mid-morning.
Nutritionist at Quest Nutra Pharma, Alix Woods said: “Start the day with a great breakfast that includes whole grain cereals, nuts, seeds, and nutrient rich super fruits such as pomegranate, mango, and blueberries. For breakfast on the run choose a power shake combining fruits and cereal with added protein.”
3. Doing your favourite exercise
While all exercise is great for aiding weight loss, doing the same exercise too often could hinder your results.
Shona Wilkinson, nutritionist at SuperfoodUK.com explained: “If you do the same exercise all the time your body can become used to it, and not work as hard. Adding variety also means you’re less likely get bored and in turn go more often. Try to vary between aerobic, cardio, weights and exercises that can help with relaxation such as yoga and Pilates.”
4. Your post-workout fruit smoothie
While many store-bought smoothies are full of fruit, some also contain up to 7g of sugar – nearly a third of your recommended daily allowance.
Instead of buying a smoothie on the go, make one at home so you know exactly what goes in it.
5. Your morning coffee
While many people’s days don’t begin until they’ve had their morning coffee, the addictive drink could actually be fuelling your sweet tooth.
New research from Cornell university found that caffeine can affect taste buds and cause food to taste less sweet, which leads to more sugar cravings.
