Why You're Gaining Weight: The 6 Real Reasons and How to Fix Them (Part 2)
In Part 2, we reveal the 6 root causes that throw your metabolism off track—like blood sugar swings, stress, poor sleep, and hidden inflammation. These imbalances keep your body in fat-storage mode, no matter how little you eat. The solution? Target the root, and your metabolism will take care of the rest.
Coach Sylvain
4/3/20253 min read
Part 2 of The Truth About Metabolism
In Part 1, we looked at why traditional advice—like “eat less, move more”—doesn’t solve the real problem.
We also talked about how metabolism isn’t broken... it’s responding to what’s happening under the surface.
If you feel like your body is stuck in fat-storage mode, it’s time to stop blaming your metabolism and start looking at what’s really going on.
Let’s break down the 6 true root causes that disrupt metabolism—and what you can do about them.
1. Blood Sugar Instability
Unstable blood sugar levels are one of the fastest ways to slow your metabolism and trigger fat storage.
When you eat, your body releases insulin to move glucose into your cells. But:
Eating too many processed carbs spikes insulin repeatedly
Over time, this leads to insulin resistance, making your body store more fat
You feel tired, crave more sugar, and the cycle repeats
The fix:
Focus on whole, fiber-rich meals with protein and healthy fats
Eat non-starchy vegetables first in your meal to reduce sugar spikes
Try 10 minutes of light movement (like a walk) after meals
Avoid sugary snacks, energy drinks, and artificial sweeteners
📖 Research: Insulin resistance is directly linked to increased fat storage and disrupted metabolism (Schoenaker et al., 2018; Ludwig & Ebbeling, 2018)
2. Chronic Inflammation
Low-grade, long-term inflammation impacts nearly every system in your body—including how you burn fat.
Inflammation disrupts:
Mitochondria, your body’s energy producers
Leptin, which tells your brain you’re full
Insulin sensitivity, leading to higher blood sugar and more fat storage
The fix:
Prioritize anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, fatty fish, turmeric, ginger, and berries
Minimize processed food, sugar, and seed oils
Manage stress and get enough sleep
📖 Research: Chronic inflammation is a predictor of insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction (Hotamisligil, 2006; Calder et al., 2017)
3. Hormonal Dysregulation
Hormones like insulin, cortisol, thyroid, and leptin all work together to regulate weight. When they’re out of balance, metabolism slows.
What throws them off?
High stress
Poor sleep
Inflammation
Blood sugar issues
The fix:
Eat regularly and avoid skipping meals
Get 7–9 hours of quality sleep
Add stress-reducing practices like breathing, nature walks, or journaling
Test—not guess—your hormone levels (especially thyroid, cortisol, insulin)
📖 Research: Hormonal balance is essential for regulating fat metabolism and energy use (Friedman & Halaas, 1998; Pasquali et al., 2006)
4. Nutrient Deficiencies
Even if you're eating "enough," you might still be undernourished—especially if your diet is processed or repetitive.
Deficiencies in magnesium, vitamin D, iron, B vitamins, and omega-3s impact:
Thyroid function
Hormone production
Mitochondrial energy
Blood sugar regulation
The fix:
Eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods: vegetables, protein, healthy fats, and some fruit
Supplement strategically when needed (after bloodwork)
Focus on food quality, not just calories
📖 Research: Micronutrient imbalances contribute to weight gain and metabolic issues (Gao et al., 2008; García et al., 2012)
5. Poor Sleep and Recovery
Lack of sleep doesn’t just make you tired—it disrupts nearly every system that supports a healthy metabolism.
Sleep loss leads to:
Higher cortisol (stress hormone)
Increased cravings, especially for sugar
Disrupted insulin and leptin signaling
Slower metabolism and recovery
The fix:
Stick to a consistent bedtime and wake time
Limit screens and stimulants at night
Get morning light and move during the day
Prioritize rest days between workouts
📖 Research: Sleep deprivation is linked to insulin resistance and weight gain (Van Cauter et al., 2008; Medic et al., 2017)
6. Stress Overload
Chronic stress keeps your body in fight-or-flight mode—which is the opposite of fat-burning mode.
Too much cortisol can:
Raise blood sugar
Disrupt digestion
Suppress thyroid function
Trigger fat storage, especially around the belly
The fix:
Build daily stress relief into your routine (even 5 minutes helps)
Practice mindfulness, breathing, or grounding exercises
Avoid high-stress diets or extreme fitness plans that backfire
Create margin in your day for stillness and rest
📖 Research: Chronic stress is associated with abdominal fat and impaired metabolic function (Epel et al., 2000; Adam & Epel, 2007)
What Now?
If you’re dealing with fatigue, stubborn weight, cravings, or brain fog—your body is likely stuck in this root cause cycle.
But here’s the good news:
Once you address the root issues, your metabolism naturally starts working again.
Your energy goes up. Cravings go down. Fat loss becomes sustainable.
If you're ready to stop guessing and get a personalized, science-backed plan that actually works with your metabolism, then book your FREE Healthy Weight Strategy Session today.
You’ll walk away with clear next steps based on your biology—not willpower.
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