You’ve overhauled your diet, filling your plate with nutrient-dense whole foods and banishing processed junk. You’re “eating clean” by any definition. So why isn’t the weight melting off like you expected?
You’re not alone, and it’s not your fault.
The truth is, even the cleanest diet won’t automatically lead to weight loss. While food quality is critical for overall health, calories still matter when your goal is shedding pounds. Here are three potential culprits derailing your progress:
Portion Distortion
You may be eating all the right foods, but too much of them. No matter how nutritious, consuming more calories than your body burns will prevent a calorie deficit needed for weight loss. Carefully measuring portions is key.
Mindless Snacking
Those few handfuls of nuts, bites of your kid’s leftovers or nightly glasses of wine can easily tack on hundreds of extra calories you’re not accounting for. This is why food logs are so effective … I believe in the phrase, “If you bite it, you write it!”
Fast Eating
When you inhale your meals, you’re likely overeating before your body’s fullness signals can kick in. Slowing down gives your satiety hormones time to register fullness.
The best way to identify potential blind spots? Keep a detailed food journal for 3-5 days. Don’t omit anything – write everything down. You may be shocked at how quickly calories add up from seemingly innocent habits.
Eating clean, nutrient-dense foods is important for overall health and weight loss. But combined with careful portion control and mindful eating practices, you’ll be amazed at how those last stubborn pounds finally start melting off. A little awareness can go a long way!