Are You Convinced You Can't Lose Weight?

By: Jillian Foley, RDN, LDN

Nutritionista

Do you feel like you've tried everything to lose weight but it's not working? You've increased your exercise, you eat far more veggies, and you eat way less at parties than you used to? Still, every time you step on the scale, it stays the same? It's unfortunately because you still aren't reaching that deficit. And believing you are incapable of weight loss despite your efforts will keep you even further from reaching your goals.

I recently heard a quote from Alex Hormozi, " Saying you are incapable of weightloss is like saying you are immune to death by way of stavation" READ THAT AGAIN!! What he is saying is that when a human, or any animal, gets fewer calories (energy from food) than the body requires, the body then uses our own fat stores as back up. He is being dramatic but his point is that if this continued on without food we would eventually die of stavation. UNLESS you are incapable of weightloss, which no one is. So what does this mean for you?

If you haven't been able to lose weight, it's because you are eating just right for yourself. No one likes to hear that, but it's true. AND it should be something you are proud of. Remember, it's your old self that allowed you to gain weight, and your healthy adjustments that are having you maintain. Sure, you aren't hitting your goals but in a world with endless food options, it takes a lot of work to make healthier decisions.

It takes 2 things to get you from maintaining to losing weight.

1. A calories deficit. Regardless of eating healthier, this is the only way for the body to use your fat stores. After a 3500 calories deficit, your body will have used 1 pound worth of body fat. Theoretically if you have a 3500 calorie deficit per week, after one month you will have lost 4 pounds.

2. A belief that you can even lose in the first place. If you are truly convinced you can't lose weight, then you are right! How long can you stick to something you don't believe in? Let's say you work a calorie deficit for four days but you show up to a party with a lot of your favorite foods. If you don't believe "it's working" how likely is it you will be mindful of your choices at this party? ( I already know the answer... I've been doing this a long time!)

Just remember, you are not uniquely doomed. Weightloss doesn't exist for everyone but you. The body doesn't rely on fat stores for everyone but you! If you aren't losing, reassess your caloric intake and know that you are capable!

Jillian Foley, RDN Nutrititionista is a Registered Dietitian that specializes in Food Therapy. She believes that weight-loss & disease prevention/management is 20% food education & 80% psychological. She owns her own practice for 1-on-1 sessions as well as courses. You can find more info @www.Nutritionista267.com Follower her on IG @Nutritionista_1