Why Do I Still Gain Weight Even Though I Eat Less?
Gaining weight despite eating less is related to factors such as lack of exercise, high calorie intake, and unbalanced nutrition. Eating less mainly means reducing high-calorie and high-fat foods, as eating more of these foods will not reduce weight. At the same time, it is necessary to exercise appropriately to burn body fat. Lack of exercise also makes it difficult to lose weight. Correct diet and appropriate exercise are essential for weight loss.
Many people focus on diet when trying to lose weight but neglect exercise. Even though they consume less food, they do not burn fat. Sitting or lying down all day leads to an accumulation of fat on the thighs and abdomen. Therefore, avoiding the misconception of simply reducing food intake and combining diet with exercise is crucial for weight loss. Additionally, extreme dieting or starving oneself should be avoided.
Believing that eating less automatically leads to weight loss is incorrect. Eating less does not necessarily mean consuming fewer calories. Some people consume high-calorie foods daily, even in small portions, resulting in higher calorie intake than those who seem to eat more. Therefore, during weight loss, it is important to pay attention to meal combinations and reduce the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods.
Many people trying to lose weight avoid staple foods and meat, choosing only to eat vegetables and fruits. However, while vegetables and fruits contain essential nutrients, they lack the necessary fats, proteins, and starches for the human body. Lack of fat can lead to the inability to synthesize many nutrients, even causing menstrual irregularities in women.
Some people trying to lose weight avoid animal-based foods and opt for "vegetable oils." These oils are made from plant-based ingredients but can be more harmful than natural oils after processing. Common hydrogenated vegetable oils, such as cocoa butter substitutes, creamer, and shortening, contain "hydrogenated vegetable oil" ingredients that can lead to the intake of trans fatty acids, causing more harm and hindering weight loss.