64 - Struggling to Lose Weight? Science Says These 5 Reasons Could Be Why

Hey Mama,

If you’ve been working hard to lose weight but not seeing the progress you expected, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not failing.

In this episode, I’m digging into five science-backed reasons weight loss might feel harder than it should, and why your body may not be responding the way you hoped.

We’ll explore what’s really going on beneath the surface—beyond calorie counting, fad diets, or “just try harder” advice—and I’ll walk you through what the research actually says helps most people succeed long term.

You’ll also hear about one simple daily habit that’s been shown to improve weight loss outcomes and doesn’t require any apps, devices, or tracking every last bite.

This episode is a must-listen if you’re tired of feeling stuck, want to understand your body better, or need a fresh perspective that’s compassionate, practical, and rooted in real evidence—not diet culture. Let’s get into it.

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Loved this episode? Please leave a review to help us reach more mamas like you! Or, share this episode with a friend who could use a little health related confidence boost.

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Want to work together?

Step 1: Schedule a Health Resource Research Coaching Call 

Step 2: Learn the skills and tools you need to feel confident about your health decisions

Step 3: Enjoy your newfound freedom and all of the resources right at your fingertips!

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Photo Cred: @derricktorvik 

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Sources:

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Boutelle KN, Kirschenbaum DS. “Further support for consistent self-monitoring as a vital component of successful weight control.” Obes Res 1998 May;6(3):219-224

Burke LE, Sereika SM, Music E, Warziski M, Styn MA, Stone A. “Using instrumented paper diaries to document self‐monitoring patterns in weight loss.” Contemp Clin Trials 2008 Mar;29(2):182‐ 193.

Helsel DL, Jakicic JM, Otto AD. “Comparison of techniques for self‐monitoring eating and exercise behaviors on weight loss in a correspondence‐based intervention.” J Am Diet Assoc 2007 Oct;107(10):1807-1810.

Humankinetics.com. Learning from the National Weight Control Registry. http://www.humankinetics.com/excerpts/excerpts/learning-from-the-national-weight-control-registry

Leproult R, Copinschi G, Buxton O, Cauter E. “Sleep loss results in an elevation of cortisol levels the next evening.” Sleep 1997 Oct;20(10:865-870

Moyer A, Rodin J, Grilo C, Cummings N, Larson L, Rebuffe-Scrive M. “Stress-induced cortisol response and fat distribution in women.” Obes Res 994 May;2(3):255-262

Knutson K. “Impact of sleep and sleep loss on glucose homeostasis and appetite regulation.” Sleep Med Clin 2007 Jun;2(2):187-197

Taheri S, Lin L, Austin D, Young T, Mignot E. “Short Sleep Duration Is Associated with Reduced Leptin, Elevated Ghrelin, and Increased Body Mass Index.” PLoS Med. 2004 Dec; 1(3): e62

Broussard J, Kilkus J, Delebecue F et al. “Elevated ghrelin predicts food intake during experimental sleep restriction.” Obesity 2016 January;24(1):132-138