Why is it so hard to lose weight?

The average American gains about 1 pound per year between the ages of 25 and 55, which adds up to about 15 pounds by turning 60 (source).

Why do we gain weight so quickly?

Is it because we're sedentary?

Because we overeat?

Don't we eat enough vegetables?

Here are five reasons why it's so hard to lose weight—and how you can get back on track to your perfect weight.

1) Hormones

Hormones can play a huge role in your ability to lose weight and your body's tendency to pack on pounds.

Overeating and underexercising may cause hormonal imbalances that slow down your metabolism, making it harder to shed pounds.

Extra belly fat or inflammation can also alter testosterone, cortisol, and estrogen levels — all of which are involved in putting on — and taking off — Weight.

To help balance hormone levels naturally consider following these guidelines: Get at least seven hours of sleep each night; exercise regularly; avoid overeating, and get a handle on emotional eating, so you don't turn to food when you're stressed out or depressed.

2) Lifestyle

Exercising and keeping a healthy diet are two of the most important factors in losing weight.

But that doesn't mean you have to change your lifestyle radically; even small steps can add up over time.

Aim for 150 minutes of exercise each week—that's just 20 minutes, five days a week.

Also, incorporate strength training exercises into your fitness routine at least twice a week.

(Be careful not to lift more than you can handle; while weight lifting is crucial, it could lead to injury if you're not familiar with how much weight is too much.)

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3) Technology

Our phones and computers are both a blessing and a curse for weight loss. They keep us connected, informed, and entertained...but they also distract us from being mindful of our food intake (not to mention make it impossible for us to get away from unhealthy comfort foods).

Many people assume their weight gain is due strictly to their unhealthy eating habits, but what they don't realize is that phone use can be just as addictive—and often more so.

Research shows that if you check your phone hourly throughout the day, you may also be checking your waistline.

One study showed that women who checked their phones after eating were more likely to eat more in an hour than those who didn't.

4) Sports

Any type of aerobic exercise is fantastic for weight loss.

For example, a 2010 study published in Obesity reveals that overweight women who jogged 12 miles per week lost more than twice as much weight as women who walked at a similar pace and burned fewer calories per session.

Even after they stopped running, they kept burning fat because they had built more lean muscle.

Plus, while walking only burns around 100 calories per mile, running can burn anywhere from 400-to 600 depending on your speed and whether you weigh more or less than 200 pounds. And consider Every pound you lose shaves about 3,500 calories off your daily needs—so if you run long enough and fast enough, you'll burn fat more quickly than if you just walk!

5) Dieting Culture

When we talk about losing weight, we're often talking about dieting.

While there's nothing wrong with using a diet to help kick-start weight loss, it is essential to understand what you're doing before you begin.

Contrary to popular belief, diets do not work for weight loss; instead, they contribute to weight gain over time.

When you restrict your caloric intake (or reduce certain food groups from your diet), you start producing a hormone called cortisol in response.

Cortisol signals your body that it needs more energy and will prevent fat burning at all costs.

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