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June 14, 2025 By Alfana Khatri 5 Comments

Unable to Lose Weight? 7 Secrets for Sustainable Weight Loss

lose weightHave you ever found yourself doubting whether you’ll ever reach your weight loss goal? How many times have you been tempted to give up? Despite your best efforts—following exercise routines, eating right, controlling cravings—the results just don’t seem to show.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with weight loss even when they feel they’re doing everything right. But here’s the truth: there’s more to it than just diet and exercise.

Let’s uncover 7 powerful yet practical secrets to sustainable weight loss.

1. Focusing on a Single Number

Do you check your weight often and feel disappointed?

Weight loss isn’t only about the number on the scale – it’s about fat loss and muscle gain. Your body composition, ethnic background, and muscle mass all affect the number you see. That’s why tools like Body Composition Analysis (BCA) give a more accurate picture. Aim to do one every month, and track waist and hip measurements every 15 days for better insights.

 2. Setting Unrealistic Goals

Aim for slow and steady weight loss – about 1.5 to 2 kg per month. It’s easier to achieve and maintain. Crash diets and short-term fixes may give quick results, but they’re rarely sustainable.

Set tangible, measurable goals, and back them with a clear plan. If you’re unsure, seek guidance from a certified coach to help you track progress effectively.

 3. Sitting for Too Long

Exercising for an hour daily but not seeing results? The culprit might be your sitting time.

Research suggests that sitting continuously for long periods can slow metabolism, stiffen joints, and lead to back pain—similar in risk to smoking! Break the cycle: stand, stretch, or walk every 30 minutes. It adds up over the day.

 4. Poor Sleep Habits

Adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night. It’s when your body repairs tissues, processes information, and balances hormones.

Inadequate sleep not only makes you crave junk food, but it also disrupts your circadian rhythm, leading to weight gain. For best results, try to sleep between 10 pm and 6 am – your body responds best during these “golden hours”.

 5. Stress Management

Are you stressed about not losing weight? Ironically, that stress might be the reason.

Stress raises cortisol levels, which promotes fat storage – especially around the belly. It also interferes with sleep and triggers ghrelin, the hormone that increases hunger even when you’re not truly hungry.

Chronic stress can also lead to emotional eating, fatigue, and even anxiety or depression. Managing it through meditation, breathing exercises, or time outdoors can do wonders.

 6. Low Water Intake

Many people mistake thirst for hunger. A simple glass of water may be all you need instead of a snack.

Set a habit: drink one glass of water before every meal. Stay well hydrated throughout the day, especially before, during, and after workouts.

7. Nutrient Deficiencies

Deficiencies in Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D3 can hinder fat loss.

  • Vitamin B12 helps convert fat, protein, and carbohydrates into usable energy.
  • Vitamin D3 plays a role in limiting fat storage and improving mood and muscle function by increasing serotonin and testosterone.

Shockingly, up to 50% of the global population may be deficient in Vitamin D. It’s worth testing and supplementing if needed.

Still searching for that “magic pill”? The truth is, there’s no quick fix – but combining these 7 steps can create real, lasting change. Stay consistent, stay patient, and stay kind to your body.

For more tips, visit our Healthy Reads section or get expert guidance by subscribing to GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.

June 4, 2025 By GOQii 20 Comments

Myths, Tips and Tricks for Weight Loss

Weight LossAre you struggling to lose weight? Have you tried everything from fad diets to exercise routines and health clubs but found no lasting results? Perhaps you’ve even regained the kilos as quickly as you lost them. So, when it comes to weight loss—what actually works?

Since every person’s body type and composition differ, weight loss varies from individual to individual. What remains common, however, is that weight loss must be holistic—diet alone isn’t the answer. The ideal approach combines several lifestyle factors.

The key to weight loss lies in making lasting changes to both your eating habits and overall lifestyle. Weight gain doesn’t happen overnight—it’s not the result of a few weeks or even months, but often years of overeating and poor habits. The safest and most effective way to lose weight is sensibly. For instance, shedding a kilo a week is both achievable and sustainable.

Crash diets should be avoided—they tend to fail over time. Extreme diets can slow down the body’s metabolism. Sustainable weight loss comes from gradual, permanent dietary changes. Don’t try to overhaul your diet all at once. Begin with small tweaks and build on them until balanced, nutritious choices become your new normal. Gradual change is more likely to form lasting habits.

Some Myths, Tips & Fun Tricks For Weight Loss

Myths

  • A glass of warm water in the morning helps you lose weight: Many believe hot water on an empty stomach melts fat. But fat doesn’t dissolve in water—hot or cold.
  • Switching sugar with honey will aid weight loss: While honey has many therapeutic properties, curing obesity isn’t one of them.
  • Bananas are fattening: This fruit is often misunderstood. It has calories similar to other fruits and is a great source of potassium. It’s filling and helps relieve constipation.
  • Standing while eating burns more calories: Not quite. You’re likely to eat more while standing. It’s always better to sit and eat mindfully—unless circumstances demand otherwise.
  • Skipping breakfast is good for dieting: Avoid skipping breakfast. It may lead to overeating later. Your body is in a fasting state overnight, and breakfast helps refuel and kickstart metabolism.
  • Potatoes are fattening: Surprisingly, potatoes are a better option than bread—boiled potatoes are far less fattening than fried ones or refined carbs.
  • Saunas help in shedding kilos: You might feel refreshed post-sauna, but the weight lost is only water. Once you rehydrate, your weight returns.

Tips

  • Eat plenty of leafy greens, fruits and whole grains.
  • Stay well-hydrated. Often, what feels like hunger is actually thirst. Here’s how to tell the difference.
  • Watch your nutrient intake. Divide your plate into four quarters – fill half with vegetables and fruits. The rest can be balanced between dairy, beans or cereals.
  • Choose smaller, more frequent meals over the traditional three – breakfast, lunch and dinner. Ideally, eat every 2.5–3 hours.
  • Have a colourful plate – with natural colours! Think vibrant vegetables and fruits for both nutrition and visual appeal.
  • Eat mindfully and chew thoroughly. It improves digestion, encourages portion control and reduces overeating.
  • Got a sweet tooth? Don’t deny it—satisfy it mindfully. Pick something that lasts, like a peppermint. If it’s high in sugar or fat, just take a bite—you’re after the taste, not the calories.
  • If indulging in sweets or fried food, have them at breakfast. Your metabolism is most active then—and you’ve got the rest of the day to burn off the extra energy.
  • Lack of sleep can lead to unnecessary snacking. Prioritise restful sleep to support your weight goals.
  • Breathe deeply into your belly. Fat burns in the flame of oxygen. Equal focus on exhaling helps detoxify your system.
  • Move every day. If you’re short on time, even 20 minutes of activity makes a difference. Remember, some movement is better than none!

Tricks

  • Set up a reward system. Having something to look forward to at each milestone helps keep you emotionally and mentally on track.
  • Be realistic with your goals – don’t aim for an unrealistic figure. Achieving a practical target can boost your confidence to keep going.
  • This might sound odd – but it works. When tempted by a snack, take a deep breath and count to 100. Chances are, the craving will pass.
  • Craving chocolate? Take a whiff of a strong perfume—it can dull the urge.
  • Try pinching your ear! Reflexologists believe it can curb cravings and reduce appetite.
  • Stay motivated. Visualise your desired weight or outfit. Imagine how you’ll feel and how others will respond. That mental image can be a powerful motivator.

The takeaway? Weight loss is a by-product of a healthy, active lifestyle. It’s you who has to get up, get moving, and choose a healthier path—meal by meal, step by step.

Do you have any other myths, tips or tricks you’d like to share? Drop them in the comments below! For more on Weight Loss, check out Healthy Reads. For the right guidance and motivation to work towards your health goals, subscribe for GOQii’s Personalised Health Coaching here.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health. Images shown are for representation purposes only and may not depict the exact recommendations or outcomes.

April 22, 2025 By Hardika Vira 5 Comments

Common Reasons For Not Losing Belly Fat

Commons Reasons For Not Losing Belly FatBelly fat is not accumulated in a day or two. It takes several weeks and months of unhealthy eating and lifestyle to build it. When people finally decide to lose belly fat, the first thing they wonder is ‘Why am I not losing belly fat even after exercising so much and cutting down on junk food?’ There are several reasons for it.

Reasons Why You’re Not Losing Belly Fat

Here are a few common reasons why most individuals find it difficult to lose belly fat.

1. Eating Heavy Meals At One Time
Most people struggling with losing belly fat and weight loss are the ones who tend to have too much food at one time. The reason for this is largely either long gaps between the meals or skipping previous meal or if the person consumes food very fast. How is this related to belly fat?

When a person consumes food, it gets broken down to release/provide energy. Firstly, it will fill in the glycogen stores and then the excess calories that are not used up with good physical activity get converted into fats and the most common sites of fat storage is the belly, arms, thighs and buttocks.

When you are having food, only post 20-25 mins of eating, the satiety centers in the brain are activated and you feel full and satisfied. When you eat fast the satiety centers of the brain are not activated and you end up eating more. Small frequent meals and chewing your food thoroughly and eating mindfully is the key to control food portion.

2. Dinner Meals Are High In Carbs & High In Quantity
Due to a hectic schedule, the only meal that we have together with the family turns out to be ‘dinner’ and in turn, it ends up to be the largest meal with a variety of food that the entire family enjoys. Ideally, dinners should be light and should be high in proteins and less in carbs. This is actually vice versa of what is generally practiced.

The reason for the dinners to be light and high in proteins and less in carbs is that post dinner, we are not that active. Hence, there’s no real requirement of all the carbs for energy. The process of recovery of all the muscles that are used up throughout the day, the repairing of all the wear and tear happens during the night and that requires proteins, not carbs.

3. Physical & Mental Stress
This is only with regards to people who are excessively obsessed with exercise to lose belly fat. Excessive exercise leads to physical stress and thus, high cortisol levels. In case of mental stress, you might have noticed that the first thing you would choose is chocolates/ice creams or any comfort foods that are high in sugar or carbs for that matter. At this point of stress, the food gets broken down and is converted to fat and stored in your belly area. Exercise in moderation and keep yourself stress free by indulging in some yoga and meditation or your hobbies.

4. Consumption Of Processed Food
Do you have the habit of reading labels? Do pick one product that you eat the most and read the label today. Most of the processed or ready to eat food products are high in sugar, fat or refined carbs. They are extremely low in fiber as well. Even the fiber enriched product gives less than 2gm of fiber per serving. Read labels and choose wisely. The best solution here is to eat homemade food or you can try some variations to increase fiber intake by incorporating more veggies/fruits along with the main product.

5. Aerated Drinks
Products containing HFCS (High Fructose Corn syrup) or liquid glucose, that are present in all the aerated drinks like Cola, flavored sugar syrups, etc. do not get metabolized and are stored in the belly as fat, which is really tough to get rid off through just activities. Instead, opt for buttermilk, lemon water, coconut water, and fresh lime soda (salted) over the above drinks.

We hope this article helps you make better choices and avoid these common reasons for not losing belly fat.

#BeTheForce

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalised medical guidance or concerns related to your health.

January 15, 2025 By Sunita Arora 1 Comment

11 Unhealthy Habits That Are Destroying Your Health

unhealthy habitsOld habits die hard and that’s true. Habits are stored in our subconscious mind. We keep on carrying out tasks or habits, without even realizing we are doing it. While some habits help us complete day to day activities, there are some which aren’t good for our health, especially the ones which affect our diet. It is crucial to follow habits which have a positive impact on health. It is time to identify unhealthy habits and get rid of them for good health’s sake.

Unhealthy Habits You Need to Stop 

  1. Skipping Breakfast: For some people, skipping breakfast is an easy way to cut calories. However, if you skip breakfast, you’ll probably overeat during lunch. Secondly, in the morning, our metabolic rate is high. To maintain it, we need to give enough fuel to our body in the form of breakfast. So you should not skip your morning meal at any cost.
  2. Emotional Eating: If you are stressed or if you’ve had a bad day, call a friend, listen to music, write in a journal or try going for a walk. These options are better than binge-eating junk food due to emotional reasons.
  3. Including Unhealthy Drinks: At some point, we all reach out for a soft drink after a meal. It has somehow become a norm. Sweetened/Aerated drinks increase your daily calorie intake and cause other health issues. Instead, drink lemon water, coconut water or buttermilk. In fact, you can make your own healthy energy drinks!
  4. Eating Out Frequently: Avoid the habit to grab something unhealthy when going out for a long day. Take healthier shortcuts! Eat a vegetable sandwich, protein salad, whole grain crackers & veggies with humus. You can even carry fresh fruits.
  5. Munching While Watching TV or During Long Drives: Try to avoid unnecessary munching while watching your favorite program or when you are on a long drive or a road trip. Instead of having processed foods like chips, cookies, etc. you can have a handful of nuts, air popcorn, seed trail-mix and unsalted peanuts.
  6. Lack of Sleep: Sleep works as nutrition for the brain. Our body needs 8-9 hours of sleep every night. Less than 8 hour of sleep triggers a cortisol spike and hampers our metabolism and contributes to weight gain. Shut your computer, mobile, and TV at least an hour before sleeping.
  7. Long Gap Between Meals: There shouldn’t be a huge time gap between meals. When you are on a weight loss journey, you shouldn’t just be careful about the food you eat but the time you eat as well! Many studies show that, if you are not eating at the right time, you might not be able to achieve your weight loss goals. The ideal gap between breakfast – Lunch & lunch –dinner should not exceed 4 hours.
  8. Eating Late at Night: You should not eat dinner very late as it promotes weight gain. Your last meal or your dinner should always be 3 hours before bedtime.
  9. Consuming Extra Salt: Eating a lot of salt can cause an increase in water weight and fat in your body. If you eat too much salt, extra water gets stored in your body which can raise your blood pressure.  Higher blood pressure leads to heart attacks, strokes and kidney diseases. Avoid sauces, pickles, sprinkling extra on salad & curd in your meals.
  10. Eating Heavy Meals Close to Bedtime: Avoid eating heavy meals close to bedtime, it can cause acidity, severe heartburn and make difficult to fall asleep. Also avoid tea, coffee, and chocolate in the evening because caffeine can stay in our system for 5-6 hrs and suppress the sleep hormone.
  11. Putting Calorie Restrictions: Eating more calories than your body needs will lead to weight gain. Whereas, eating lesser calories than your body needs will lead to weight loss. However, restricting calories too much may slow down metabolism, can cause fatigue, nutrient deficiencies and lower immunity too.

These 11 unhealthy habits can contribute to weight gain, affect metabolism and can be extremely detrimental to your health. Avoid them and adopt a healthier lifestyle. For more tips on living a healthier lifestyle, check out Healthy Reads or ask an expert by subscribing for Personalised Health Coaching here.

We hope this article has helped you. Do leave your thoughts in the comments below!

#BeTheForce

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