Diet Failure is Not Your Fault!
In the crazy, demoralizing world of dieting, we’re relentlessly reminded through the media-, and our very own family, that this failure must be our fault. After all, how can one possibly not be held accountable for being able to lose (and keep off) a few lousy pounds?
Although we passionately try again and again with every diet that comes along (no matter how absurd the weight-loss claims maybe!), we continuously fail. We can’t help but feel alone. Lost. Desperate. With each failed diet, our sense of self-worth is further shattered. And then, in the dark of night, we silently pray that one day soon our willpower will be enough.
While willpower, moreover, a “desire” to succeed is required, it has nothing to do with why we’re unable to ignore the insatiable cravings that faithfully come calling daily or why we’re so often driven to consume our food in a frenzy. Without a doubt, succumbing to the cravings and binge eating will impede our weight loss goals. However, the time has come to stop blaming ourselves. It’s time to learn the TRUTH!
I understand there will always be those individuals who don’t care about living a healthy lifestyle, at the very least, living free of excess weight. But most people do care. The truth of the matter is, our inability to adhere to a healthy way of eating is NOT our fault! My research will explain why diet failure is not due to a lack of willpower, emotional attachment, or so-called carb addiction.
The primary reasons why diets fail is due to carbohydrate/sugar cravings and binge eating. More importantly, the reason why we’re unable to control these eating behaviors is due to a major neurotransmitter that becomes depleted. That brain chemical is called serotonin. Serotonin is the master communicator among all brain chemicals. Therefore, for the brain and body to function at its best, it must be maintained.
Unfortunately, we live in a society that depletes it at every turn, from stress, lack of quality sleep, caffeine, nicotine, sugar/high glycemic carbs, artificial sweeteners, to low-fat dieting, dieting in general, lack of exercise, prescription and OTC meds. Worse yet, in addition to cravings and binge eating, side effects of low serotonin can range from anxiety, rage, mood swings, depression, ADD/ADHD, insomnia, PMS, migraines, to alcoholism, schizophrenia, and suicide.
Once serotonin is depleted, our brain will force us on a subconscious level to consume the type of food/beverages that will quickly elevate it. Regrettably, the things that achieve this are the carbs that break down quickest into blood sugar and thus, spike insulin levels. Once insulin is spiked, fat cells are open and ready to gorge. With so many things depleting this major neurotransmitter, no wonder our rate of obesity is so frightening—and why so many suffer from depression.
But hold on! Please don’t be discouraged! The good news is I’m here to help you get started on a healthier path today. The following health tips are an excellent way to start:
– Feel sluggish? Can’t eat like you used to? Want to speed up your metabolism without harmful drugs or stimulants? The best way to kick your metabolism into high gear is by first fueling your body every 3 hours. In theory: eat less, more often. These meals should consist of a protein (fish, poultry, lean meat, eggs, tofu, etc.), a healthy dietary fat (fresh white cheese, nuts, avocado, real butter, olive oil, etc.), with a low GI carb (tomato, asparagus, collards, black beans, berries, etc.) Next, build lean muscle with resistance training. Unlike fat, muscle is extremely active tissue. Therefore, it requires a certain amount of fuel to sustain itself. Subsequently, more lean muscle equals a higher metabolism.
– If you don’t eat breakfast, start! By merely eating breakfast, you’ll see a huge difference in your energy levels throughout the day. (Your body will also start to release some of its stored fat once it can rely on you fueling it on a “regular” basis.)
– Put down the latte, low-fat, or otherwise! Why? Because unlike what Starbucks would love for us to believe, caffeine, be it found in your cup of Joe, soda, or iced tea, plays a major role in depleting serotonin. And, low serotonin levels will, at a bare minimum, perpetuate your cravings, binge eating, mood swings, and increase your risks for Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
– Think you’re doing right by eating low-fat, fat-free, sugar-free, or net-carb? Sorry, think again. These foods most often contain a ton of hidden sugar, artificial sweeteners, and other ingredients that will trigger your insulin, deplete your serotonin, and perpetuate the vicious cycle of cravings and weight gain.
– Want to look 10 years younger…and look great naked? If you desire a lean, healthy and vibrant body, one that looks sensational both in and OUT of clothes, avoid sugar/high GI carbs, be it a candy bar, pastry, chips, cereal, fruit juice, bagel, fries, pasta, cocktails, protein bars (yes, protein bars!) diet foods, etc.
Nevertheless, the crucial link to being able to avoid these common comfort foods (and without ever feeling hungry or deprived), is by maintaining your serotonin. And, the safest, most effective way to accomplish this is with a dietary supplement called 5-HTP. 5-HTP is a natural amino acid that’s been safely used for decades. It’s affordable, found in most health food stores, and no prescription required.
Coming to understand that all those failed diets were not your fault is empowering enough, but to learn how to safely control the cravings that have always kept you overweight, is nothing short of a miracle. In my 31 years in the wellness industry, I’ve never seen anything bring such extraordinary results to so many people. Hence, my passionate desire to help others through any means possible.
