Why Dieting Might Be the Reason You’re Not Losing Weight
- Gillian Scerri
- Jun 19
- 2 min read
If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of dieting, counting calories, and obsessing over food, only to see little progress, you’re not alone. In fact, studies show that dieting may actually be what’s keeping you from losing weight.
📉 The Problem With Dieting
The truth is: dieting backfires for many people. While it may lead to short-term weight loss, most restrictive diets trigger biological responses that make it harder to maintain results over time.
🔍 One landmark study, published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that restrictive calorie intake lowers resting metabolic rate, meaning your body burns fewer calories at rest. This metabolic adaptation can stick around long after the diet ends, making long-term weight loss even more difficult.
And it gets worse…
🍩 Dieting Increases Cravings and Triggers Binge Eating
When you restrict food (especially carbs or fats), your body responds with increased hunger hormones and cravings. This isn’t about willpower, it’s your biology trying to protect you from perceived famine.
That’s why dieting often leads to:
Cravings for “forbidden” foods
Overeating or bingeing when willpower runs out
Feelings of guilt or failure
Yo-yo weight gain
Sound familiar?
🔑 The Real Solution: Sustainable Lifestyle Changes
The key to sustainable weight loss isn’t eating less, it’s supporting your body so it feels safe to let go of weight.
That means:
Fuelling your metabolism, not starving it
Balancing blood sugar with every meal (protein + fat + fibre)
Managing stress and sleep, both crucial for hormone health
Building habits that fit your life, not fighting against it
You don’t need another diet. You need a roadmap for real, lasting change, without restriction, burnout, or shame.
💬 Want to Learn How?
I help people break free from the dieting trap and create a lifestyle that feels nourishing and sustainable. No more tracking every bite. No more “starting over” every Monday.
Ready to make peace with food and finally feel good in your body? Lock in a free 15-minute chat with me today!
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