The Psychological Reasons You Are Struggling to Lose Weight

Why do so many people struggle to lose weight, even when they know what they “should” be doing?In this episode of the Harley Street Doctor Podcast, Alya Shakir, CEO of Harley Street Health Centre, explores the psychological and emotional factors that often sit behind weight gain, emotional eating, and repeated cycles of yo-yo dieting.The discussion looks beyond calories and exercise plans to examine the underlying emotional patterns that can sabotage weight-loss journeys, including stress, self-criticism, subconscious beliefs, comfort eating, and the relationship between self-worth and body image.Alya explains why many people start weight loss journeys from a place of shame or self-punishment, why this often leads to failure, and how chronic stress and cortisol can physically affect the body’s ability to lose weight.The episode also explores:Emotional eating and subconscious habitsWhy motivation alone is often not enoughThe connection between stress and fat storageWhy does losing weight not automatically create happinessThe importance of self-awareness and emotional well-beingHow to identify a meaningful and sustainable “why” behind weight loss goalsThe psychological impact of unrealistic expectations and social pressureThis episode offers a more compassionate and realistic conversation about weight management, focusing not only on physical health but also on mindset, emotional well-being, and long-term, sustainable change.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre