The Science Of Weight Loss

Studying the science of weight loss

Science is certainly at the center of all things to do with the human body and determines so much of what makes us unique.  Genetics, nutrition, chemistry, environment, ethnicity and a whole host of even more esoteric science-driven processes are at play within each us.  This makes the challenge of pinpointing the "right" plan for weight loss programs more challenging because everyone responds differently to different foods, habits and exercise programs. And then there are a couple of nuances to think about within the realm of science as it pertains to weight loss...the science of the body and the science of the mind.  At Lazarus Labs, we have explored each of these in depth as a part of our holistic programs for healthy, happy lifestyles.

Let's explore a few things about both the physical and emotional sides of weight gain and loss.

The Science of the Mind

The human mind is a complicated machine. It can dictate thoughts that have nothing to do with reality. Consider the idea of the skinny, beautiful woman who thinks she is fat and ugly. There are countless examples of individual perception not equaling reality.

 The Science of the Body 

The scientific physical determinant of an individual's weight and the ability to sustainably manage it really focuses on two key variables...The two primary keys to permanent weight control are proper nutrition and adequate activity levels.  Let’s address the issue of proper nutrition first.

One often overlooked aspect of weight control is that many overweight people are actually undernourished.  They may be overfed (taking in too much of the wrong kinds of foods, or non-foods), but they are often are undernourished in that they do not eat enough of the right kinds of foods and are therefore lacking in necessary nutrients.  To help you understand this, let’s explore the relationship of food to the body.The body requires fuel for energy, growth and repair, and other bodily processes such as temperature regulation.  Such fuel is supplied in the form of food and is measured in calories.   read more....

How Attitude Can Affect Weight Loss

It is no secret that at least one third of the American population suffers from obesity and that a substantial portion of the rest of the United States suffers from excessive weight to a substantial, though not quite obese, degree. The overweight American has become a stereotype used to depict social, intellectual, and physical ignorance and a generally sloppy demeanor. Now, as Americans, we know that this stereotype is just that, a poor caricature to make fun of real people with a very real problem. This problem has many sources, such as diet, changes in the activity of the thyroid gland, sleep patterns, exercise patterns, and depression. Depression is an easily forgotten about symptom of excessive weight gain or rapid weight loss and in either case is a substantial contributor to the American weight problem.  read more...