In the United States obesity rates have reached a point where it has become an epidemic. Approximately one out of three adults and one in six children are obese.

If left untreated obesity has some serious health consequences such as increasing the risk for developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. Obesity is defined as the accumulation of visceral fat, better known as belly fat. The amount of visceral fat and length of time that it remains on the body can impact and prolong the damaging effects on the body’s cells, increasing the risk for developing chronic health conditions and inability to lose weight easily.

How does inflammation prevent the body from losing weight?

Weight gain is associated with cellular inflammation. Inflammation of the cell is triggered by both hormonal and metabolic changes until excess weight is lost. Higher concentrations of belly fat create an inflammatory substance known as tumor necrosis factor alfa (TRNFa). TRNFa is released into the blood stream and starts attacking cells, which allows cells to be surrounded by inflammation forcing them to decelerate and work slower. Inevitably, they become unable to process the nutrients necessary to carry out their intended metabolic functions. First signs of inflammation may be expressed as fatigue, forgetfulness, slowed digestion, and changes in mood and behavior.

Inflammation and weight gain lead to insulin resistance

A prolonged period of inflammation increases the risk of developing a chronic illness. This is due to inflammatory compounds which impair the way the body manufacturers and utilizes insulin. Left untreated, glucose (blood sugar) levels reach a point where they are uncontrolled and are sustained at an abnormally high state. In addition, fat accumulation in the liver further contributes to insulin resistance. These conditions can then start to fuel one another, causing a vicious cycle: weight gain causes more insulin resistance, and insulin resistance leads to more weight gain.

In response to fat accumulation, the liver is in a distressed state and will then create and release its own anti-inflammatory protein known as C-reactive protein. Chronic inflammation sets in. This inflammation appears to be triggered by hormonal and metabolic changes and remains until excess weight is lost. Chronic inflammation can be expressed in many ways such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Losing Weight following an Intuitive Mindset

Whether a person is carrying an extra 10 pounds of body fat or an extra 60 pounds, there is likely some level of inflammation which makes the body irritated and stressed. In chronic states of stress our body’s primary function is to heal itself rather than lose weight. It may seem impossible to break this cycle, but there is hope. In order to lose weight, the key is to reduce inflammation and eliminate contributing factors to help the body revert back to a normal, well-balanced state.

Adopting an intuitive mindset can ease the transition into a new way of eating. We’ve all experienced some form of criticism when it comes to eating and the choices we make. Intuitive eating is the exact opposite. You are the expert of your own body and its hunger signals. It’s about making the right choices about when you eat and what you want to eat. Consider incorporating these principles to kickstart a healthier eating approach.

Principles of intuitive eating

Honoring your hunger

Ignoring the “diet mentality”

Making peace with foods and accepting change

Tune in to fullness

Respect yourself

Feel the change both physically and mentally

Honor yourself with good nutrient dense whole foods

Samantha Aponte has her bachelor’s degree in Nutrition Science and is available for nutritional and wellness coaching related to weight loss and more at Essentials Medispa & Salon. 1705 Berglund Lane, Ste 101, Viera. 321-722-2860. EssentialsMedispaandSalon.com.