Finding it difficult to lose weight? There could be underlying reasons preventing you from losing weight. Dr. Ardyce Yik ND has helped many people lose weight successfully by addressing the underlying causes of weight gain or sluggish weight. In her practice, here are 6 of the top reasons why people can’t lose weight on their own:
- SIBO. Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition where there is the presence of excessive bacteria in the small intestine. The overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine in SIBO can cause bloating, digestion problems as well as promote inflammation and contribute to metabolic dysfunction, all of which can lead to weight gain. Dr. Yik at IMI clinic offers SIBO testing, which is a simple breath test. Click here to read more about SIBO.
- Food Intolerances. Do you notice weight gain, bloating or fluid retention after eating certain foods? If so, it could be a food intolerance preventing you from losing weight. Other symptoms associated with food intolerances include digestive problems, fatigue, eczema, mild depression, aches and pains. Some people are able to lose up to 3 kg just by avoiding the foods they are intolerant to. Dr. Yik offers food intolerance testing for patients who suspect that food reactions play a role in their weight gain. Click here to read more on food intolerances.
- Hormonal Imbalance. Do you eat very little, have a small appetite but are still gaining or struggling with weight? Your thyroid hormones may be out of balance. Your thyroid regulates your metabolism, so it plays a key role in weight management. Do you feel bloated or gain weight before menstruation? Are you in your 40s or 50s and cannot lose weight no matter what you do? It could be the effects of menopause (for women) or andropause (for men). Get help from a healthcare practitioner who is trained in helping people rebalance hormones and get their bodies back on track.
- Stress. Cortisol is a stress hormone released by the body to deal with stress. High levels of chronic stress can lead to high levels of cortisol in the body, and one of the effects of elevated cortisol levels over a period of time is fat deposition in the abdominal (tummy) region. If you face chronic stress and notice your waistline expanding, elevated cortisol could be the culprit. Cortisol levels can be properly balanced and restored by botanical medicine, nutraceuticals, nutritional therapy and stress management techniques under the guidance of a licensed naturopathic physician.
- Toxic Overload. In 2006, American scientists coined the term “obesogens” to denote a group of foreign chemical compounds that disrupt normal development and balance of lipid metabolism. Obesogens act by hijacking the regulatory systems that control body weight, which in some cases can lead to obesity. Click here to read more on obesogens and what you can do to reduce obesogen exposure.
- Emotional Eating. Do you crave certain foods under stress or when you feel down? Maybe you feel you must have chocolate every evening. Perhaps you cannot put that bag of chips down until you finish it. Or you eat a lot when you are under stress or upset. If so, you may be struggling with emotional eating. Emotional eaters often feel powerless over their food cravings. Dr. Yik is experienced in helping patients practise mindful eating, as well as regain control over both food and your feelings. She can also address pre-existing conditions like anxiety, depression or blood sugar imbalances.
Dr. Yik is dedicated to helping each patient get to the root cause of their health condition or concern. She is in charge of the Weight Loss program at IMI clinic in Hong Kong. To successfully lose weight, you need not only a suitable diet and regular exercise but also to ensure that underlying hidden causes are addressed. Contact Dr. Yik today to see how she can help you attain your weight goals and become a healthier you.
SOURCE: The New American Diet: How secret “obesogens” are making us fat, and the 6-week that will flatten your belly for good! (Authors: Stephen Perrine with Heather Hurlock))
Dr. Ardyce Yik ND 