An abnormal amount of fat on the body is a symptom of a sluggish metabolism and inappropriate food choices. It does not necessarily mean that the person is eating too much in terms of total caloric intake. It does, however, mean that the foods chosen are not being metabolized well.

There are a number of metabolic weaknesses that may contribute to excessive accumulation of fat. All of them need to be checked out and supported as needed. If even one is left unattended, then nothing else one does to lose weight is likely to be of lasting benefit. All of the "links" in the nutritional "chain" need to be strong in order to get results.

Many people who gain weight easily and who fail to lose on diets may have undiagnosed low thyroid function (hypothyroidism). If the thyroid gland is not functioning up to par, then nothing else in the body tends to work well either. Digestion and elimination slow down and there is a tendency to develop hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).

Low stomach acid also contributes to overweight conditions. If the stomach does not secrete adequate amounts of hydrochloric acid, the entire process of digestion and elimination slow down. The body may not be able to absorb the nutrients it needs and may accumulate excess waste and toxins. Taking supplementary digestive enzymes not only helps the body to be better nourished but can also cause an immediate weight loss by perking up digestion and stimulating the colon to release its accumulated contents.

Hypoglycemia can cause sudden cravings for sweets, coffee, or alcohol. As the blood sugar level go down, the brain craves a "fix" to bring it back into normal range. Unfortunately, the very foods craved are the ones that may be causing the problem – you eat and an hour later you are hungry. People with hypoglycemia tend to eat more sugary foods than their bodies can handle, and what you don’t use, you wear.

Often the "yo-yo" cravings of hypoglycemia are triggered by food(s) to which one is allergic or sensitive. Another side effect of food sensitivities, in some people, is excess fluid retention. For them it is not unusual to eliminate 20 pounds or more of excess fluid simply by identifying and eliminating the foods to which they are sensitive.

Diabetics, especially those who are sluggish metabolizers, may develop excess body fat. When blood sugar levels are constantly too high, the body will struggle to do what it can with the excess, which usually means converting it into fat. Anyone with excessive urination, excessive thirst, weakness, dry skin and excessive food intake is well advised to be medically tested for diabetes.

Which diet is best for losing weight? Generally, it is any one that concentrates on low glycemic foods. These are foods that the body converts to glucose (blood sugar) very slowly – including protein foods (e.g., fish, eggs, poultry, meat, cheese), non-starchy vegetables, and complex carbohydrates (e.g., 100% whole grains). Avoid the simple carbohydrates (e.g., refined sugars, dried fruits, fruit juices, beer, liquor). Eat whole foods in as natural a state as possible. Overprocessed foods tend to overwhelm our bodies with glucose molecules faster than they can be metabolized. Keep in mind that overweight is a symptom of metabolic imbalances and when these imbalances are corrected, body weight tends to normalize itself. Written by – David W. Rowland

Disclaimer: The advice detailed in this article assumes that you are a normally healthy adult. The author, publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage suffered by individuals as a result of following advice in this article.

For more information on weight management or to set up your customized weight management program contact us at:CJM LeBlanc HealthWorks, Centreville Mall, 121-342 Main Street, Shediac, N.B. E4P 2E7, tel: (506)533-8885, fax: 532-8644,
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