Losing weight at any time of year is tough – but especially so over the summer months. Outdoor barbecues, vacations, and the summer heat take a toll on your body, preventing fat loss and causing you to hold onto excess weight.
Knowing what to do when a summer weight loss plateau strikes helps you power through it. If home strategies aren’t enough, the Novell Primary Care and Weight Loss team has the tools to help.
We specialize in weight management strategies, including meal and exercise plans, fat-burning shots, and appetite suppressants to help you reach your goal weight by fall.
Summer is a time many people look forward to – but if you’re trying to lose weight, it can be a tough season. Weight loss plateaus near the end of summer, but not just because you’ve been enjoying food and parties.
There are other reasons that your body stops losing weight in the summer, and they include:
Summer typically means go, go, go, which affects what your body burns for energy. Chronically high cortisol levels signal the body to burn glucose rather than fat, which stalls weight loss.
Hot summer nights don’t make for great sleep, which slows down weight loss. Poor sleep affects melatonin and growth hormone production, both of which are essential for overnight metabolism.
It’s easy to become dehydrated in the summer months, which impairs the body’s ability to break down fat. Breaking down fat requires proper hydration, which is tough in the warmer months.
Summer drinks and weekend parties lead to inflammatory food intake, which spikes insulin and burns through glucose stores. Week after week of this reduces the body’s ability to burn stored fat, hindering weight loss.
The good news is that there are plenty of tips to help you push past the weight loss plateau this summer. Below are a few expert tips to lose the weight this season, even when you’ve stalled:
Staying hydrated over the summer is essential for many reasons, including weight loss. Not only does hydration curb your appetite, but it also supports metabolism and fat oxidation, helping you reach your weight loss goals.
Regular exercise is necessary, especially during a calorie deficit, to increase fat loss. Aim to get some form of physical activity most days of the week, focusing on strength training to maintain muscle mass.
Summer typically means veering off your routines, which often leads to weight gain and plateaus. Stick with normal routines and maintain a calorie deficit to manage weight loss.
Lean proteins and fresh vegetables are great for overcoming a plateau. Lean proteins like chicken and turkey help you feel full, while veggies provide hydration and nutrients without many calories.
Summer fruits are a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth without consuming too much sugar. Watermelon, cantaloupe, and fresh berries are excellent options for a sweet treat while still staying on track with weight loss.
If you continue to struggle with weight loss, don’t hesitate to contact our Tallahassee, Florida, office today to schedule an appointment or book your consultation online.
