Why can't I lose weight

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  • PikaKnight
    PikaKnight Posts: 34,971 Member
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    I just put this user under the ignore user column.
    You may follow these guidelines:
    - Start exercising. Getting a flat stomach involves losing belly fat. To achieve this, start a workout routine. If possible, exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. If this isn't possible, strive to exercise for at least 90 minutes a week - running, power walking, swimming or biking.

    Aside from just cardio, I'd personally recommend having a balance of cardio and strength/resistance training. Examples of such are heavy lifting with barbells, strength exercises with dumbbells, sprinting, TRX Suspension, bodyweight routines, sandbags, etc. Cardio is great for endurance but it's never too early to start working on body composition and strength - which is done through strength/resistance training.
    - Strengthen the core muscles. In conjunction with losing belly fat, choose workouts that exercise the core muscles. Effective workouts include dancing, pilates, crunches, and knee and leg lifts. For the best result, keep your abdominal muscles tight during core workouts.

    You cannot spot reduce belly fat. You have to lose the overall body fat and you can't choose where it comes from first. That's based on genetics. Keeping the core engaged is great, but doing the above isn't going to spot reduce.
    - Improve your diet. Bad eating habits can impede weight loss efforts. Eliminate fatty foods and sugary foods from your diet. Choose lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and eat no more than 130 grams of carbs a day.
    - Eliminate alcoholic beverages from your diet. Drinking more than two alcoholic beverages a day can raise cortisol levels in the body and decrease the metabolism. Cortisol increases hunger, and a slower metabolism makes it harder to burn fat and calories - especially in the abdomen.

    I disagree. I think eliminating foods and being overly restrictive can lead to binges, rage quits, and unneeded stress. Moderation really is key. It's not easy to start, of course, but with practice, you'll get there. Trying to demonize foods is wrong and creates an unhealthy mindset.

    And want to point out that you NEED fat. Trying to eliminate that is just foolish. Fat doesn't make you fat. Eating at a calorie surplus above your maintenance does. And btw, MFP sets you up at a deficit so even if you go a little over, don't worry about it.
    - Drink plenty of water. Water flushes excess sodium and fluids from your body, which can help you achieve a flat stomach. Additionally, drinking water fills your stomach quicker, and you're less likely to overeat.

    Drink when you're thirsty. Some people are good at 7-8 ounces, some do 10+...especially if they workout that day. If your pee is a pale yellow, you're hydrated. Be careful getting overzealous about it because there is such a thing as water toxicity.
    - Control stress. Being stressed or feeling anxious can also release high levels of cortisol. In addition to increasing appetite, this hormone redistributes fat to the abdomen. Learn how to control or reduce stress. Practice breathing exercises, workout or get a massage.
    - Reduce abdominal bloating. A low-fiber diet and certain foods can produce abdominal bloating. This prevents a flat stomach. Increase your fiber intake to fight bloating, and limit trigger foods such as beans, raw vegetables, lactose and starches. Take a digestive enzyme tablet to eliminate bloating.

    Umm, it's recommended (for women) to get around 25g of fiber. I've never heard of beans being trigger foods. Unless you have an intolerance, are allergic, or find yourself having difficulty with certain foods, there is no need to take additional enzymes or cut foods out. Always check with your doctor if you are unsure.
    - Get a Bariatric Surgery to make you fit and healthy. Safe and affordable. Learn more from PlacidWay.

    I have no idea why this person would tell someone with 25lbs to lose to get surgery. :noway: Don't listen to that at all OP.

    The copy and paster, or the user that put together a well thought out and accurate response to said copy and paste.

    Kind of wondering myself :laugh:

    If me, was it because I didn't include a cat gif? :tongue: