Dr Amir Khan explains why you can 'do everything right' and still not lose any weight
It is no secret that losing weight can be a difficult task.
Despite our best efforts, it can feel like we are making no progress whatsoever. However ITV's Dr Amir Khan has revealed there's actually a reason why you may be struggling to shed the pounds.
The doctor took to Instagram to explain the "Set Point Theory" - a scientific explanation as to why some people struggle to lose weight.
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Sometimes you can do all the right things, with regular exercise and healthy eating but you might not see the pounds drop off, reports the Surrey Live.
If you are finding the weight loss process disheartening and the scales aren't moving in the direction that you want them, Dr Khan admitted it "might not be your fault". The health guru explained there's a simple reason why the weight might not be coming like you hoped.
He explained: "The thing that lots of people don't recognise is that obesity is a complex disease. It changes the way the body functions.
"It changes the way you metabolise food, and it changes the way your hormones work as well and anyone living with obesity will tell you that losing weight, or sustaining weight loss, can be very challenging.
"Now science explains this with the Set Point Theory. It says your body mounts a defence or works against your weight loss efforts. Basically, it fights to keep your weight on, and it thinks it's doing you a favour.
He added: "It's an evolutionary thing, which isn't very useful anymore, because historically starvation has always been our greatest threat. Food wasn't always accessible as it is now, so our bodies adapted to protect us from starvation."
Dr Khan described how we evolved a “set point” to fend off starvation, meaning our bodies can work to keep the weight on.
He admitted it can be a “vicious cycle” and to break free you must reassure your body that you are safe, healthy and that it is ok to lose weight.
He explains the best way to do this is to focus on a diet rich in nutrients focusing on whole foods, lean protein and lots of plants, instead of reducing calories as well as doing exercise. He stresses that it’s vital not to lose too much muscle mass.
Dr Khan emphasises incorporating cardio with strength training to help maintain muscle, as muscle helps you to stay healthier for longer, and helps burn fat. He also stresses that sleep is essential for help with weight loss.
His Instagram post has gained lots of attraction, and people were quick to comment.
One person said: "Honestly Dr Khan, you are one of a few medical professionals that actually explain things in a completely user friendly way."
Whilst another wrote: "Love your explanations for everything. Is there anything you don't know about?"
A third commented: "That has to be the most well explained post about weight loss I've seen in my whole life!"
In line with the NHS advice, the recommended daily calorie intakes for men and women are 2,500 and 200 respectively.
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According to the NHS, the recommended daily calorie intake for men and women is 2,500 and 2,000 respectively.
For those on a weight loss journey, a 600 calorie drop per day is advised. People should still try to have a balanced diet, including a minimum of five portions of fruit and vegetables a day and for those who eat fish a recommended two portions a week is recommended.
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