For years we’ve been told that losing + regaining weight might be detrimental to our health and metabolism. In 2016, a New York Times article about weight regain among The Biggest Loser contestants went viral. Many lost hope. However, little is known about hormone regulation and body fat composition after multiple episodes of weight cycling. Today, a University of Washington team released a first-of-its-kind study, published ahead of print in the American Journal of Physiology—Endocrinology and Metabolism that highlights the potential benefits of multiple weight loss attempts. Repeatedly losing and regaining weight may lead to improved insulin levels and lower body fat percentages in the long term, even during weight … [Read more...] about The Potential BENEFITS of Weight Cycling
Once I Lose Weight
Most of us think our weight is the main problem that needs to be solved. I wholeheartedly disagree. When our obsession with our weight is front and center, we’re unable to focus on any aspect of self-care that doesn’t involve shrinking our bodies. I’ll be kinder to myself once I lose weight. I’ll start walking (or go to a yoga class) once I lose weight. I’ll buy quality clothes that fit well once I lose weight. I’ll eat what truly feels good in my body once I lose weight. I’ll book that vacation once I lose weight. I’ll stop starving myself once I lose weight. Essentially, we’re neglecting our basic needs and desires until we feel we “deserve” it by losing weight. This is incredibly unhelpful. What leads to … [Read more...] about Once I Lose Weight
The Unfillable Hole
In the minutes before yoga class a few weeks ago, I saw my friend Shana walk into the studio. Happy to see her, I jumped up and immediately heard a POP in my leg. Not good. But because I can be stubborn and willful, I decided to stay. It’s not that bad. You can make it through. Come on Robyn, you’re tough. You got this. As soon as I half attempted Warrior 2 pose, it became VERY clear I needed to go. Tail tucked between my legs, I grabbed my mat and hobbled out of class. Tim, my Godsend of a physical therapist, diagnosed the injury the next day (a strained gastrocnemius muscle) and set me up with a few weeks’ worth of PT appointments. It wasn’t as bad as I feared, but it would take some time to heal. With … [Read more...] about The Unfillable Hole
What Should I Eat?
Changing opinions, clickbait-y headlines and the latest get thin quick schemes keep us in a state of perpetual confusion about what to eat. Should I cut sugar completely out of my diet?Can I eat carbs and still lose weight?Should I fast?Keto? My favorite advice on nutrition comes from Michael Pollan… Eat real food. Not too much. Mostly plants. I recommend my clients choose real food (either straight from nature or minimally processed like rolled oats) 90-95% of the time and what I call “joy” food (whatever you LOVE) the other 5-10% of the time. Eating a mostly whole foods diet helps us naturally increase our fiber intake, which leads to feeling more satisfied overall. The New York Times surveyed Americans and a … [Read more...] about What Should I Eat?