The struggle to avoid quarantine weight gain is real, as is the battle against it. The Weight problems Society’s thirty-eighth Annual Assembly, held in early November, focused almost exclusively on the effects of stay-at home orders on people with weight problems. (This could make COVID-19 much more dangerous.) One of the many studies presented at that meeting raised a crucial issue that deserves more attention than it is getting.

What about those who tried to lose weight earlier than the pandemic began? What about individuals who have joined the Quarantine 15, but wish to leave? How is the weight loss going?

Not so effective, it seems. 69.6% have trouble reaching their weight loss goals. What are the offers? While you’re here, consider adopting the 21 Best Wholesome Cooking Hacks Ever:

1

You’re consuming a little bit more than before.
According to research, consuming 10-50 calories per day can help you achieve your weight loss goals. Let’s be honest, even under the best of conditions it’s easy to consume 10 to 50 more calories per day. These conditions, which are certainly not the best, have been associated with increased food consumption, especially of high-fat, energy-dense snacks between meals.

What can you do? Doctor Leann, MD suggests that you practice what she calls “consuming mindfullness” by taking photos of everything you eat in a single day. If it sounds scary, then you should probably avoid doing it. Then you will most likely have to do it.

2

Controlling cravings may not be your strong go well with
Not everyone who lives under lockdown has to struggle with their weight. But why? Recent research suggests that certain people are better (or worse?) at controlling their cravings when they’re under stress. Scientists behind the study attribute this to genetic predisposition. Alex Tauberg, sports chiropractor, suggests that the difference could be down to our response to cortisol. This stress hormone can slow our metabolism and make us crave comfort food.

Regardless of the cause, it appears that the best way to improve craving control is to adopt methods. Here are 15 proven methods to crush cravings.

3

Stockpiling and tedium are a dangerous combination
Stockpiling food, or hoarding as it is also known, makes sense during a pandemic. It is important to remember that overeating is possible when there is an abundance of food. According to Jaya Jaya Myra a natural well being professional and creator of Vibrational Therapy, the boredom associated with lockdown only magnifies the problem, because it could result in mindless eating.

Acupuncturist Dr. Tom Ingegno shares a few simple hacks for avoiding “boredom grazing” while keeping the kitchen well stocked.

Keep a daily schedule that includes planning meals.
Self-care is important. It can be meditation, warm baths or an interest you enjoy.
Store after you have eaten and keep a record of your groceries.

Don’t miss out on these 11 mindful eating suggestions backed by science.

4

You binge-watched an excessive amount
We all know that binge-watching is on the rise. Recent research shows that the increase is greater for people who are already overweight. While binge-watching can be tempting and it’s understandable that we might want to make use of some of our newfound time to compensate for a bit of tradition. However, Brittany Robles MD, a licensed private trainer who is also an OB/GYN, says that spending hours a night watching television promotes a sedentary lifestyle.

Dr. Robles says that the more you sit, the less you will be able to activate your muscles and burn energy. Inactivity can lead to a loss of muscle mass and metabolism. It also increases the risk of weight gain. Dr. Ingegno suggests that if you can’t limit your TV watching, at least consider multi-tasking, such as cleaning or exercising while you watch.

Related: 7 habits to help you lose weight during lockdown.

5

You are denied access to healthy meals
According to Dr. Ingegno, the lack of access to healthy food is a major concern for many. It is more important than ever to plan your meals in advance. Follow these tips to buy wisely during the pandemic. Choose meals that can be used as leftovers. And, if you are bored, learn to cook the healthiest food you can with your groceries.

6

You have been eating extra
It has been shown that consuming energy can help you lose weight. Reducing your alcohol consumption can help you to reduce the urges that may be affecting you. Extreme alcohol consumption can also worsen psychological health issues like anxiety, and make it harder to lose weight.

Here are 25 additional things you probably never knew could have an impact on your ability to lose weight.

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