Men and women of all ages and all different body types have struggled with stubborn body fat for ages. We try exercise, diets, and fad products to help us lose the fat we just can’t seem to shed. And for many of us, it’s just not enough. If this sounds like you, here are some of the most common reasons why you might be unable to lose that unwanted belly fat.
Eight Reasons You’re Unable to Lose Body Fat
1. You’re Getting Older
As we get older, our metabolic rates start to drop. We go through menopause. Our testosterone levels drop. And these natural changes can make it even harder to lose unwanted fat or weight.
2. You’re Not Getting Enough Sleep
Adults should be trying to get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep every night—and going to bed around the same time every night. The benefits of a regular sleep schedule include both mental and physical wellness benefits.
And one of these is the ability to manage your weight. One of the reasons for this is that when you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces too many of the hormones that make you hungry. So not only are you likely to be fatigued and irritable, but you’re likely to eat more throughout the day.
3. You’re Eating Too Many Processed Foods
French fries, lunch meats, microwave dinners, fast food, sodas, and the like should only be consumed in moderation. When you eat too many of these, your body can become inflamed and more likely to retain fat.
4. You’re Too Stressed Out
The stress hormone, cortisol, can actually stimulate the production of visceral fat. Or it can make you more likely to retain more of the fat you eat.
5. You’re Not Doing the Right Workouts
Running and crunches are not likely to give you the slim, toned belly you desire. In order to lose the fat around your belly, you need to include strength training and high-intensity full-body workouts into your routine.
6. You’re Just Naturally Apple Shaped
Some people gain weight in their buttocks and thighs. For many, it’s all over. For others, it’s their arms and back. But for those who are naturally apple shaped, all of the weight and fat you put on tends to stick to your midsection—no matter how much you fight it.
7. You Drink Too Much
When you drink alcohol, you’re consuming unnecessary calories—as your body can’t store the alcohol. Because of this, you start metabolizing alcohol right away, which stops fat oxidation and leads to weight gain and/or a slowed metabolism.
8. You’re Eating the Wrong Fats
Dairy and meats are good in moderation, but too much of them can lead to a buildup of the wrong fats. Instead, you should be incorporating more olive oil, avocado, and fatty fish into your diet.
Thinking About Trying Liposuction?
Now, let’s say you’ve been doing everything right. You’re working out regularly. You’re eating plenty of whole foods. You’re sleeping well and managing your stress. But you just can’t seem to lose the unwanted fat around your midsection.
If this sounds like you—or even if you can’t lose the fat for any of the reasons listed above—you may be a candidate for liposuction, a gentle procedure to help you lose unwanted fat. For additional information on the benefits of liposuction, contact us. We’re always here to answer your questions over the phone or during a consultation at either of our locations.
John Rosdeutscher, MD
Double board-certified plastic surgeon “Dr. R” has been voted Best of Music City #1 plastic surgeon 3+ years.
Mark Peters, MD
Board-certified Memphis plastic surgeon Dr. Peters has earned recognition for his work in skin tightening and cellulite reduction.
