To lose weight effectively, safely and sustainably, slimmers must focus on adopting a nutritious diet, drinking plenty of water and keeping active.
But lifestyle factors are also incredibly important when it comes to banishing fat for good – and they may be overlooked.
The Slimming Clinic claimed that stress management is something that can “really help you lose weight”.
They said: “Research suggests that stress can cause weight gain. And with surveys suggesting that almost three-quarters of UK adults have suffered from stress, it’s clearly a significant factor.
Dr Charlotte Norton said: “Chronic stress can sabotage your weight loss efforts by triggering emotional eating and promoting fat storage, especially around the abdomen.
Calming down might be the secret to weight loss and anti-ageing
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“The relationship between stress and weight is a complex one, however, steps can be taken to address this in the form of incorporating stress-reducing activities into your routine.
“For some people, yoga meditation or deep breathing exercises can be helpful. For others, things like walking the dog, going for a run or reading a book can help. What’s important is to learn to identify when your stress levels are rising and learn to take appropriate action.
“This will help to not only improve your overall health, but also help to reduce the propensity to overeat and gain weight.”
Chronic stress is not just harmful to your waistline; according to a skin care expert, it can also be damaging to your face.
Denise Rabor, owner of The D.O.R Beauty Edit, offered her top tips on how women in their 50s can achieve young, radiant skin. She suggested that stress can speed up the ageing process.
The expert advised: “To effectively handle stress, prioritise your well-being. Stress and anxiety are inevitable, impacting both the immune system and skin health.
“Implement strategies to manage stress, such as relaxation techniques and self-care practices.
“Stress triggers skin issues by increasing inflammation and oil production, resulting in breakouts. Moreover, stress hormones degrade collagen and elastin, accelerating ageing with more fine lines and wrinkles. Prioritise stress management for overall health and youthful skin.”
The Sleep Clinic offered a second weight loss solution. The experts said: “Quality sleep is crucial for weight management. Indeed, studies have shown that a pattern of sleeping for less than six hours a night has been associated with a higher BMI.”
Dr Charlotte Norton said: “A lack of sleep negatively impacts the hormones that control appetite regulation, like leptin and ghrelin. This can lead to feelings of hunger and also the need to eat more food to feel full.”
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Yoga meditation or deep breathing exercises can be helpful stress management tools
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Indeed, Britons have been given a weight warning as those who get less sleep are more likely to be diagnosed as obese.
The doctor continued: “Whilst everyone needs different amounts of sleep, the NHS recommends that on average adults need seven to nine hours a night, and if you’re constantly tired in the day, you’re probably not getting enough.
“There are a number of things that can be done to help improve the quantity and quality of your sleep, including restricting screen time in the leadup to bedtime, ensuring your bedroom is dark, and addressing lifestyle factors which can impact sleep such as reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption.
“Relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation can also help. If you’re struggling with insomnia or other sleep problems, it’s important to seek medical advice.”
