Weight loss can be quite a daunting task, especially when the results are not as visible as expected.

You might have tried various methods such as exercising more, cutting down carbs, counting calories, and still seem to be gaining or not losing any pound. This can be quite frustrating and disappointing. However, other unforeseen reasons are capable of hindering your weight loss goal. Here are 15 unforeseen reasons why your weight is not waning:.

1. Lack of Sleep

Having less than 7 hours of sleep a night can increase your stress hormone levels and slow down your metabolism. This decrease in metabolism can lead to weight gain as your body does not burn off calories effectively.

Sleeping for at least 7 hours a night can put these hormones back in check and decrease your susceptibility to weight gain.

2. Medications

Some medications such as oral contraceptives, steroids, and antidepressants have side effects that can cause weight gain. They might increase your appetite or slow down your metabolic rate.

Speak to your doctor regarding any possible weight gain side effects and possibly switch to alternatives that do not have weight gain as a side effect.

3. Dehydration

Dehydration can cause water retention and bloating in your body. This can add some pounds to your weight. It is recommended to drink at least 8 cups of water a day to stay hydrated and flush out toxins from your body.

4. Lack of Protein

Protein plays a crucial part in building muscles, improving satiety, and increasing metabolism. Not taking enough protein in your diet can decrease your metabolic rate and increase your appetite, causing weight gain.

Ensure to have at least one source of protein in every meal to boost your metabolism.

5. Eating too Quickly

When you eat too quickly, you may not feel full even after eating the needed amount. This can prompt you to overeat, causing weight gain. Take your time while eating and chew your food properly to decrease your chances of overeating.

6. Skipping Meals

Skipping meals can mess with your metabolism and cause weight gain. When you skip meals, your body panics and starts to store more fat for an energy reserve. This makes weight loss difficult.

Ensure to eat regularly every few hours to keep your metabolism up and burn more calories.

7. Stress

Chronic stress can cause your cortisol levels to spike up and cause weight gain. Cortisol is the hormone in charge of regulating stress. Persistently high cortisol levels can lead to increased appetite, causing weight gain.

Take steps to manage your stress levels, such as walking, meditating, or yoga.

8. Unrealistic Expectations

Unrealistic expectations can cause you to give up on your weight loss goals easily. Weight loss is not a one-day affair, and everyone’s body is different. Ensure to set realistic goals to avoid disappointment and stay motivated.

9. Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption can add a lot of calories to your diet. Drinking a lot of alcohol can also cause dehydration and lower your metabolism rate.

It is recommended that you avoid or limit the number of alcoholic drinks you consume and opt for low-calorie alternatives.

10. Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances such as hypothyroidism or menopause can cause weight gain. These conditions hinder metabolism and cause an increase in appetite. Speak to your doctor if you have any hormonal imbalance symptoms.

11. Eating too Many Processed Foods

Processed foods tend to be high in carbs, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. They can cause a spike in your blood sugar, causing you to overeat. This overeating can cause weight gain.

Eat foods that are whole, unprocessed, and have low saturated and trans fat content.

12. Over-Restrictive Dieting

Overly restricted diets can cause you to crave unhealthy foods and binge eat. This can lead to weight gain. Instead of trying very restricted diets, find a balance where you eat healthy foods in moderation.

This will make it easier to stick to the diet long-term.

13. Not Drinking Enough Water

Not drinking enough water can cause you to mistake dehydration for hunger, leading you to overeat. Drinking water can help you feel fuller for longer periods, help flush out toxins, and boost your metabolism. Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water daily.

14. Medical Conditions

Various medical conditions can cause weight gain, such as Cushing’s syndrome, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or sleep apnea. These conditions can cause hormonal imbalances that hamper weight loss.

Speak to your doctor if you are concerned that you may have a medical condition.

15. Lack of Exercise Variety

Repeating the same set of exercises on a regular basis can cause your body to adapt to them, causing slow weight loss. Incorporating different exercises can shock your body and cause weight loss.

Mix up your exercise routines and incorporate resistance training to boost your metabolism.