Weight loss can feel like a never-ending puzzle. With countless diets, social media trends, and conflicting advice, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and stuck. In a recent episode of Movement with Me, holistic health coach Leah Dumbroski shared her insights on why simplifying your approach and focusing on individualized strategies is the key to success.
The Problem with Overcomplication
Leah points out that much of the confusion around weight loss stems from lack of education and diet culture. Social media bombards people with the latest fad diets, extreme restrictions, and miracle supplements—leaving many feeling frustrated when results don’t appear.
“Weight loss is simple,” Leah says. “It’s the people overcomplicating it that confuse themselves and turn to extreme measures that often do more harm than good.”
The takeaway? You don’t need keto, intermittent fasting, or zero-carb regimens. Success comes from focusing on foundational, sustainable habits.
Mindset Matters
Leah emphasizes the role of mindset, especially for those who have internalized diet culture. Long-term restriction can slow metabolism, lead to weight loss resistance, and create uncomfortable symptoms like constipation, hair loss, and fatigue.
Her advice: trust your body and work with it, not against it. When given proper nutrition and support, metabolism can rebuild and respond positively, even if it has slowed over time.
Gut Health: The Hidden Key
Your gut plays a critical role in overall health and weight management. Leah explains that issues like constipation, acne, eczema, and even autoimmune conditions often trace back to the gut.
Lifestyle tips for improving gut health include:
- Consuming high-fiber foods (beans, edamame, apples, pears)
- Staying hydrated
- Incorporating movement throughout the day
- Using natural aids like aloe vera juice, kiwis, dragon fruit, and prunes
For stubborn issues, Leah recommends a functional medicine approach to uncover underlying imbalances.
PCOS and Blood Sugar Balance
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is common and often tied to insulin resistance. Leah stresses that lifestyle changes—particularly stabilizing blood sugar—can dramatically improve symptoms without relying solely on medication.
A practical tip: Include a fat, fiber, carb, and protein source at every meal to slow blood sugar spikes and stay fuller longer, supporting both weight management and hormonal health.
Individualized Plans: One Size Does Not Fit All
Leah’s coaching approach is holistic and personalized. She assesses each client’s nutrition, lifestyle, metabolic rate, and functional medicine insights to create a tailored plan. This ensures that strategies address the root causes of weight gain or health issues, rather than just masking symptoms.
“I want to hear your story, understand your lifestyle, and see where you’re at now. That’s how I can best help you.”
Golden Nuggets to Remember
- Symptoms are common but not normal: Bloating, fatigue, and weight plateaus signal your body needs support.
- Your body is resilient: With the right nutrition, movement, and guidance, you can recover from metabolic setbacks.
- Advocate for yourself: If you feel dismissed by conventional medicine, seek alternative insights and solutions.
Weight loss doesn’t have to be complicated. By simplifying your approach, addressing gut and metabolic health, and creating an individualized plan, you can achieve sustainable results without extremes.
Connect with Leah Dumbroski:
- Instagram: @leahdumbroski
- TikTok, YouTube: Search “Leah Dumbroski”
- DMs are open for questions and guidance
Podcast Mention: Movement with Me by Crystal Blark – follow for more insights on holistic health, mindful movement, and weight management strategies.