You haven’t changed your eating habits or exercise routine ““ but suddenly your pants are feeling a bit snug. So what’s the deal? These three factors could be affecting your weight:
1. Lack of Sleep: Can spending less time with your pillow cause you to pack on the pounds? Some studies say yes. Researchers found that lack of sleep may lead to decreased energy levels and may contribute to cravings that cause excess calorie consumption. Even a slight, seemingly unnoticeable increase in appetite can cause unwanted weight gain. In addition to keeping your appetite at bay, getting a good night’s sleep can help you make positive, healthy choices throughout the day.
2. Stress: Stress can put a strain on your body and its systems, triggering the release of hormones that can slow your metabolism and lead you to overeat. A stressful schedule can also leave you little time or energy to prepare healthy meals and exercise. Supporting your body’s normal response to stress, by engaging in relaxing activities such as yoga, can not only provide peace of mind, it may also help promote healthy weight management.
3. Occasional irregularity: Occasional digestive irregularity can put a wrench in healthy eating patterns and may also affect nutrient absorption and normal metabolism by causing a buildup of waste and toxins. Supporting healthy and efficient digestion, waste elimination and nutrient assimilation may help promote overall well-being and help you maintain a healthy weight.