Why is it so easy to put on weight but so hard to lose it?
Unfortunately, there’s no simple answer – but understanding the issues involved may make the process of losing weight a little easier.
As everyone knows, our bodies need a certain amount of energy (measured in calories) each day just to “exist” and this amount depends on each individual – their age, sex, lifestyle, size etc. It stands to reason that an 18 stone rugby player will need more energy each day than a 12 stone office worker.
So the key is to balance the amount of energy taken in (from food and drink) with the amount of energy expended. So far, so obvious.
Thousands of years ago, our ancestors didn’t need to worry about this delicate balance because their way of life and environment did it for them. The act of having to hunt and gather everything first meant that energy usage was high and scarcity of food in general ensured that no one could really over eat.
And it’s safe to say that the number of real sugary or fatty ‘treats’ were very far and few between!
Now, thank goodness, the vast majority of us don’t need to hunt for our food – it’s provided easily and relatively cheaply.
But unfortunately humans have not evolved to cope with this limitless abundance – and our bodies take every opportunity to store energy whenever it can rather than eject it as “not required”.
And because “modern” food is packed with energy and most of it tastes delicious, it’s very hard for most people NOT to over-eat.
Then throw in our relatively sedentary lifestyles and you have a double whammy.
No wonder over 60% of the UK’s adults are either overweight or obese.
So how can we change things?
Well, the first bit of good news is that we are in control of the energy in = energy out equation.
We have the power to restrict the amount of energy entering our bodies and can increase the energy used by moving around more – and that’s all we need to do.
Mmmn. Easier said than done!
Not only would you have to use more energy than you need for a period of time to lose weight, you’d then have find the right balance so that you don’t put the weight back on.
And all that is very difficult to do just by going on a diet or a quick jog.
The key thing is – it’s not only what you eat, it’s the quantity you eat and how active you are in response to your surroundings, habits, motivations and behaviour that actually governs your weight and fitness.
Whilst this certainly isn’t the whole answer – the way ahead suddenly becomes clearer.
To control your weight and fitness levels you have to adjust your day to day habits and routines over a period of time – and the small daily changes you make will produce long-lasting results.
If you like the sound of this approach and want to know more, then New In 90’s Stepping Stone Program is a great place to start.
It will show you exactly what you need to do and can be started straight away – even if you are staying at home.
After all, recent events have reminded us of the importance of being as fit and healthy as possible.
Good luck
Sue on the New In 90 Team.
Sue on the New In 90 Team.