Quarantine Weight Gain is Real: What Should You Do About It?

Published on: 25 March 2021 Last Updated on: 27 December 2024

There’s no denying that quarantine weight gain is real. A survey found that close to 36% of the 19,903 people surveyed in over 140 countries shared that they have gained weight while in lockdown. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were committed to doing home workouts.

However, since most are not familiar with the training that would best suit them, many found it difficult to stick to a regimen. A considerable number of gym members haven’t been able to go back to gyms since the onset of the pandemic over a year ago.

Lockdown Weight Gain Is a Serious Matter-

Weight gain during the lockdown has signaled the waning motivation of individuals to work hard to keep their bodies healthy, and both mental and physical fatigue has become increasingly prevalent.

With increased levels of stress, gaining unnecessary weight only serves to put more strain on people’s health. This is why it’s necessary for people to take their health seriously. Obesity is a huge risk factor for COVID infection and complications.

Here are a few tips to start putting your health and wellness first:

Stick to an Exercise Routine:

It can be challenging, but you have to force yourself to stick to a workout routine. If you have fears of being exposed to the virus in a public environment, there are plenty of exercises that you can do at home.

In fact, you can download mobile apps to help you connect with other people so you can have a workout buddy to motivate you. You can also enroll in virtual workout classes if it helps you stay focused. If you prefer working out at home, you can use apps to help you craft a plan.

Start slow, and set aside at least 30 minutes a day, three to four times a week to focus on your workout.

If you prefer doing workouts with a personal trainer, you can ask your gym if they offer such a service.

If not, there are a number of personal trainers who advertise their services online. Some of them are willing to do online sessions. Try doing a variety of exercises, including yoga, bodyweight exercises, or running. Walking your dog for at least 30 minutes a day can help you lose weight, and dancing is also a great way to shed off some fat. You can watch YouTube videos of Zumba classes to get started. Not only will it help you lose weight, but it will also give your mental health a boost.

If you have any illnesses that may be exacerbated by exercise, consult your doctor. Ask for recommendations about what exercises would work best for your present condition. It’s okay if you need to start slowly; what’s important is that you make a change from leading a sedentary lifestyle.

Invest in Your Nutrition:

On top of your workout routines, you should also invest in your nutrition. Make sure that you are eating adequately and appropriately. Stick to a nutritional plan that best suits your health needs. It can be tempting to binge on comfort food because of the emotionally draining situation that we’re currently in, but your best bet would be to consume ample amounts of fruits and vegetables while cutting back on sugary food items and processed meals.

It might be a good time to develop your skills in the kitchen and get cooking. Making home-cooked meals is a great way to help you stick to your diet. In fact, a study has shown that individuals who consume home-cooked meals are less likely to gain weight.

Since you are in quarantine, use the time you have at your hands to experiment. Start meal planning so you can squash those cravings that you have late at night. Aside from food, you can also take supplements to help you lose weight. Choose healthy supplements that help you burn fat faster. You can learn more here.

Remember, you should aim for a balanced diet. It is unhealthy to follow crash diets that could affect your immune system. If you want to curb your eating routine by adopting methods such as intermittent fasting, be sure to ask your doctor first. While you may want to experiment in the kitchen, experimenting with new diets can be risky.

You need to be properly guided on how you should start and progress on a particular diet.

Follow a Routine:

Quarantine fatigue can cause you to lose focus. You can try to shake it off by following a routine. Ever since the pandemic disrupted our regular routines, many found it hard to cope, which resulted in behaviors that caused them to gain weight.

One way to combat this is to set up a new daily routine, which can help you maintain a sense of normalcy. You can start by setting a time for when to wake up, do chores, eat meals, work out, attend work or school, and sleep.

Once you get the hang of it, you can slowly incorporate meal planning to ensure that you are getting the right food in your system, helping you fight off obesity.

Getting the right amount of sleep can also help you strengthen your immune system. Aside from giving your body plenty of rest, following a sleep routine helps to fight off midnight cravings and prevent weight gain.

You have to make sure that you are getting quality, restful sleep so that your body is able to rest and recuperate. This way, you will be ready to take on a new day.

Endnote:

Now you have a deeper understanding of what quarantine weight is and how it can affect your risk for developing other chronic diseases. Try not to be too hard on yourself, as the last year has been difficult for everyone. Focus on formulating a new routine and sticking to it, and you’ll start seeing a difference in your physique in no time.

Read Also:

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

How Safe Are Steroids? Safe Guard Your Liver During Steroid Cycle

As anabolic steroids are highly effective, yet when overused, they can be detrimental to health. The most critical of all is liver damage or toxicity. However, there are reports and instances that claim there are various dangerous side effects of the overuse of anabolic steroids that is rampant now. These are known as “doping” drugs used to enhance performance. Many bodybuilders and athletes use these drugs causing serious health problems. Precisely, anabolic steroids are testosterone offshoots used to increase muscle size and strength. Without a prescription, it is illegal to use steroids in the U.S. these are to be only used in certain cases with a doctor’s prescription. It stimulates muscle mass and bone strength useful from a health point of view. It is mainly prescribed in case of testosterone deficiency, delayed puberty, along disorders such as AIDS. Exposure to such anabolic steroids for a longer time poses a threat to the liver and might advance as liver cancer. Regular consumption of such steroids can make you addicted and crave for it, affecting the liver adversely. Besides, severe problems are witnessed in the body due to anabolic steroids and it mostly affects the liver causing complications. When enzymes named aminotransferases to leak out of liver cells in the bloodstream, it indicates liver damage. It may lead to liver damage condition known as cholestasis, which takes place because of anabolic steroids. It is a condition, in which digestive fluid bile, leaks out of the liver into the blood and causes symptoms like loss of appetite, itching, nausea, jaundice, and dark color urine, etcetera. Do not take alkylated steroids: Steroids like alkylated steroids harm life and have an adverse effect on liver function. These are oral steroids that are: Unable to remove toxins in the liver without letting them get in the blood Stop breakdown of toxins into the liver impedes the excretory liver function Oral steroids (C17-Alpha Alkylated (C17-aa)) are responsible for the structural change in the hormone at the 17th carbon position. The purpose of such alteration is to enable the drugs to endure the first pass in the liver, where they can get into your system to benefit you. the bottom line is that C17-aa modification turns oral steroids toxic to the liver and it is unable to remove toxins. Hence, limit oral steroid use to 8 weeks considering the fact, the liver toxicity. However, the liver can rejuvenate, but this does not mean you can consume anything. The side effects of oral steroids might increase the risk of hepatotoxic and might cause hepatic tumors, acute cholestatic syndrome, fatty liver disease, and chronic vascular injury. These changes can turn out to be fatal or recoverable. The occurrence of chemical substitutions that take place in the testosterone in the body in two forms are: 17-alpha-alkylation, and 17-beta-esterification Where metabolization of testosterone in the body takes place rapidly. The esterification of the 17-beta-hydroxyl group let molecules to be hydrophobic. On the other hand, 17-alpha- alkylation triggers inhibition with oxidation of metabolic deactivation of the 17-beta hydroxy group in the liver. Therefore, effectively administering the 17alpha-alkylated androgens orally. Mostly used anabolic oral steroids are stanozolol, methandienone, methandrostenolone, mesterolone, methenolone, oxandrolone, methyltestosterone. The oral forms do not cause instantaneous hepatotoxic and dilapidation. Medical use of 17alpha-alkylated steroids for various purposes like muscle growth, weight gain in catabolic states, treating aplastic anemia, bone-marrow failure along with off-label doping purposes. These steroids were reported with the case of liver damage like nodular regeneration, cholestatic jaundice, hepatic adenoma, peliosis hepatis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Take non-alkylated steroids: To be free from the liver adversities, using non-alkylated injectable steroid in the injectable forms undergoes the process of esterification 17-beta-hydroxy group making it soluble in lipids. This enables the slow release of steroids in circulation. Testosterone esters namely testosterone cypionate, enanthate, and decorate managed in oily suspension tend to release slowly in the aqueous plasma due to hydrophobicity. Extending its active duration. Whereas, a crucial metabolic path of testosterone and its artificial derivate is the oxidation of the 17-beta-hydroxy group forming 17-keto metabolites. Polar metabolites are inactive biologically in the body. The steroids that are injectable are stanozolol nandrolone decanoate, nandrolone undecanoate, testosterone enanthate, trenbolone acetate, trenbolone. Using oral steroid alone is harmful as it put high pressure on the liver. So, to keep your liver healthy, use an attack of injectable steroids along with oral. It is great for cutting as well as bulking. Do not take more than 350-750mg per week of stack beyond six weeks of cycle duration. Rely on supplements to protect the liver: Be a smart steroid user and supplement your liver that restores and repair liver from any damages. N2Guardis highly popular among bodybuilders using oral steroids and do not in taking oral cycle without supplementing with it. Additionally, avoid alcohol consumption to avoid stress from the liver. Aid offered by of N2Guard During And post Steroid Cycle: Regulates blood pressure Protects the liver from harm because of oral steroids It minimizes water retention Balances cholesterol levels Purifies the kidneys of steroid metabolites and excess protein feasting Purifies the blood from toxins and injurious metabolites Dissipates androgen receptors, make your next cycle more effective Maintains healthy, skeletal, reproductive, and digestive systems By responsibly using the N2Guard, you can prevent your liver from any side effects of the steroid. N2Guard is used to enhance athletes throughout the world. It will keep you healthy during and beyond the cycle. It is the best support supplement and protects from any harm. Benefits of using short steroid cycles: Instead of long cycles, opt for short steroid cycles. As it keeps the liver activity in a normal condition without harming the liver. Exposure to high steroid use is dangerous. Besides, replace oral doses with injectable cycles to avoid severe health risks. Take breaks during steroid cycling: Regular use of steroids is not productive, instead, it can cause liver damage. More intake of steroids enables your body to resist it. Hence, making it inefficient after some time. Therefore, it is important to take breaks and enable your body to disengage from toxins. Let your body get back to normal function. Allow your liver to regenerate. Liver function and ways to keeps it healthy: The liver is a prime fat-burning organ. It also regulates the sex hormones testosterone. Therefore, the healthy liver function will enable the fat loss process smooth and easy. Keep your liver healthy by avoiding excess use of alcohol, do regular exercise, follow a healthy diet, avoid unnecessary medication. Ensure normal liver function before starting the steroid cycle. Avoid oral steroid cycle if facing liver issues. Cleanses blood Controls the amount of glucose supply Controls body cholesterol Regulate essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and copper Oxidizes stored adipose tissue (fat) into energy by transporting it to mitochondria Produces vital body proteins indulged in transporting substances in the blood, providing resistance to infection, and clotting the blood Regulates sex hormones, thyroid hormones, adrenal hormones, and cortisone Produce bile salt, to immobilize fatty acids and eradicates toxic substances from the body Read Also: 5 Tips To Kick Start Your Fitness Routine Love Who You Are: How To Prevent Eating Disorders Some Supplements You Need To Know Right Now What Is Garcinia Cambogia And How It Can Help Your Health?

What Services Do Residential Treatment Centers Offer?

Residential treatment centers for youth can be a boon to an afflicted teen and their entire family. Still, before choosing any rehabilitation or treatment option, it’s wise to understand what those options entail. We’ll give you a thorough breakdown of what residential treatment centers do, how they operate, and why they’re so effective at treating various conditions, from anxiety and stress to drug abuse. What Is A Residential Treatment Center? A residential treatment center is a resource used by millions of Americans to help them cope with a variety of concerns. These can vary from the mild, such as higher stress levels, to the extreme, such as disorders, cognitive issues, or substance abuse. The goal of a residential treatment center is to create a healthy environment for the patient that allows them to focus on their own recovery, often blending a retreat-style getaway with therapy and personalized care. What Services Do Residential Treatment Centers Provide? Residential treatment centers offer a variety of services, including: Therapy Therapeutic treatment is at the heart of every residential treatment center. With licensed mental health experts and experts in various conditions that may affect a patient, residential treatment centers offer a combination of individual and group therapy approaches depending on the issues that the patient presents. Approaches differ by treatment center, but the goal is to help the individual recognize the validity of their feelings, express those feelings in a safe space, and, over time, learn to cope with their emotions, impulses, or addictions. Treatment options vary greatly, some proving more effective at treating specific types of disorders, conditions, or predispositions: Talk therapy – Often used with teens, talk therapy is a common approach wherein an individual can talk with a licensed mental health professional about anything and everything, walking through life experiences to process them effectively. Group therapy – Individuals in a treatment center often participate in group therapy, which allows treatment center members to share their experiences, their struggles, and their growth. Knowing they’re not alone greatly benefits many who are struggling, and having someone with the same difficulties cheering them on creates an environment of positivity. Alternative therapy treatments – From specialized treatments such as psychodynamic therapy to dialectical behavioral therapy, different schools of thought in therapeutic treatments can lead to different outcomes. Depending on the patient’s condition, a specialized type of therapy may be necessary or helpful. Activity-based treatment – Research suggests that structured physical activity is beneficial in residential treatment centers. Some level of activity fosters overall wellness and may contribute to a better sense of well-being. These may include art therapy, yoga therapy, acupuncture, or massages. Animal-assisted therapy – Lastly, animal-assisted therapy uses animals like dogs and horses, for which the center patients may care. These approaches reduce anxiety and can instill responsibility. Animal-assisted therapy is particularly helpful for patients with mental health disorders. Retreat-Style Care One of the underlying principles of a treatment center is the retreat style. In essence, it’s supposed to be a relaxing and calming environment that lets troubled individuals take their minds off the stressors of everyday life for a little while. In doing so, they can concentrate on the therapy provided, develop a sense of personal wellness, and, if applicable, dissociate themselves from harmful stimuli that could exacerbate their condition. Such reasoning is particularly relevant for patients who are struggling with substance abuse. By living in a drug-free environment for a while, patients can learn to cope, recognize the way that substances affect their bodies, and restore their condition to a dependency-free state. The goal of ‘retreating’ is to return to everyday life feeling rejuvenated, strengthened, and capable. From the distance of a retreat, individuals can focus on their own mental health needs without unhelpful outside input and identify circumstances or relationships that are contributing to their success. The increased focus on interpersonal issues in a private space allows the therapeutic method to be truly effective and long-lasting. A Strong Support Network Throughout the process, treatment centers provide a powerful network of providers that can help individuals with their needs. Often, people experiencing mental health concerns, cognitive development issues, or addictive/compulsive behavior feel incredibly isolated from their community, friends, and family. A great benefit of residential treatment centers is that patients have constant support from medical professionals who offer both physical and mental health checks throughout the process. A strong support network places patients in a position to receive the best care they can during their stay, allowing them to return to their everyday life with a better toolkit for coping with their emotions, denying their compulsions, and reframing their thought patterns. This support network also manifests through discipline; residential treatment center patients often stick to a tight schedule of brief yet intensive therapy. No illegal drugs or harmful behavior are allowed, giving residents the best start to kick unhealthy habits and start the recovery process through treatment. Continued Support Recovery doesn’t happen overnight; many patients need continued support as they transition back into regular living. Even after patients leave the residential treatment center, they often have the opportunity to keep in touch with their therapist and report their progress. Doing so helps transition the teaching at the center to the real world since, in many cases, mental health issues and the temptation of substance abuse don’t just vanish at the retreat. It takes continued effort on the part of the individual to ward off those negative emotions or harmful tendencies, which is much easier with the ongoing support of a therapist. The Bottom Line From intensive, specialized therapeutic treatment to a strong support network of care providers, residential treatment offers a range of helpful services that give residents the best chance at recovery. It’s the best of both worlds. People benefit from residential treatment centers by stepping away from their ordinary lives to focus clearly on recovery. The healing process can be complex and laborious, but a residential treatment center can significantly improve an individual’s quality of life through evidence-based therapy to help them experience long-term success. Read Also: B.Sc. Agriculture- An emerging career option in India Finding Your Dream Career: 5 Useful Tips for you to Research about a Company Before You Apply Tips to Explain with Your Web Designer for Starting the Job

What Are Virtual Reality Workouts And How Will They Affect Exercise?

When pondering on whether or not to workout, your mind will usually think of the hassle of getting to the gym or the stench of sweat surrounding the rowing machines. But, technology is making advances that could render these uncomfortable associations null and void. There is no denying the leaps and bounds technology has made, and the ways in which it is impacting our lives. One of the most prominent pieces of technology to date is Virtual Reality (VR). While variations of practical applications have been in development for many years, devices that are capable of displaying VR experiences are more reliable now than ever before. One of the more recent applications is its role in recreating the workout experience. The following article will outline how, through the use of devices like the Oculus Rift, VR is changing the exercise landscape for the better. While VR may prove beneficial for an individual’s workout, supplements can further increase your ability to achieve your health goals. For example, CLA supports weight loss and Moringa boosts energy. These are just a few products that may promote slimming down or enhance your performance. But, finding the right supplement is not always an easy endeavor. If you wish to make your search as painless and efficient as possible then check out Research and You. Their in-depth reviews on all the latest products will guide you towards a wiser purchase decision. And with your health supplements in check, is it time to start investing in the VR revolution? Read on to find out how it could improve your workouts: From the Comfort of Your Home: As we have already mentioned, it is often more strenuous to get to the gym than it is to actually work out. After all, the decision to leave your home doesn’t solely rely on your productivity. While laziness plays a big part in steering people away from their gym’s front doors, being uncomfortable can cause major workout neglect. Quite simply, many people are not happy with their bodies. You may feel disheartened when seeing the macho and slim figures sprawl themselves across the exercise machines. Or, you may not feel so lively when you catch a whiff of the trainer on the machine next to you. These are all ways in which going to the gym can seem a terrifying and daunting challenge in itself. VR can change that. Learn more about it here. VR allows individuals to transport themselves to another ‘location’ without having to leave their homes. It caters to the individuals that do not wish to make the trek to the gym or simply do not have time. Strap on the headset and you’re off for your workout. Anywhere Goes: Beyond conducting your exercise within your own home, you can do it just about anywhere around the world without having to step into a gym. Taking a much-needed vacation? Take your headset along with you for a quick morning session. Visiting family for the weekend? Avoid the family politics and step outside for a quick yoga practice on the beach. These are all ways in which you can use VR to workout anywhere. This is because all you need is the headset and decent internet connection. Saving on Memberships: Gym memberships can take a lump sum out of your pocket every month. In fact, signing up to a gym is one of the most expensive ways to workout. Click here to read the truth about the costs. While VR is not exactly cheap, it can prove more cost-effective than memberships. The initial cost of purchasing a headset is likely your biggest expense. After that, there are many workout apps that offer free trials and you can even download some for free. The fact that you can use these experiences just about anywhere is another appealing and sustainable reason to invest in it. If you wish to relocate or visit another country for a few months, you will not need to purchase a new membership or increase the cost of your existing one. Gamifying the Experience: Another extremely appealing factor is VR’s ability to gamify your workout experience. Rather than the mundane environment, you can transport yourself to an isolated beach and conduct your routine there. For the more adventurous, certain apps will encourage you to beat your best bench press by scoring you and offering rewards. The satisfaction of earning a new badge or bragging right is what will bring individuals back to this gamified experience. The potential to create inspiring and invigorating new ways of exercising is limitless. Here are a few games to get you started. For those that want a more classic workout, then the VR headset will offer that to. While the implementations are relatively new and glitches may be present, the future of workouts is positively changing through the introduction of tools like VR. You can harness the power of technology to re-inspire your love of exercise and efficiently achieve your health goals. Read Also: Eating Versus Exercise With Your No Contract London Gym Membership What Are Popular Mind And Body Exercises Available At A Gym?

Quarantine Weight Gain is Real: What Should You Do About It?