Our online store is open until 10 p.m. 9. 2025 under construction. Occasionally, there may be brief disturbances. Thank you for your understanding. 
8 min. reading
More than 95% of diets fail in the long term – but the reason is often not a lack of willpower or just in just the wrong diet.
Environmental toxins, known as ‘obesogens’, also play a role, and can inhibit losing weight even when you don’t eat excess calories. These hidden disruptors slow down the metabolism, affect hormones and promote fat accumulation.
To achieve more sustainable results without it–effect, it is good support the liver and optimise metabolic processes.
Table of contents
Why do diets often not work?
If you’ve tried different diets, exercised to exhaustion and still haven’t got the results you want, you’re not alone. The problem is often not a lack of willpower or discipline, but factors that are ignored by conventional diets – including toxins that can inhibit weight loss.
Metabolic and toxic blockages
Most diets focus only on calories and macronutrients, overlooking an important factor: the impact of environmental toxins on metabolism. It is these substances that can slow down weight loss – even when diet is carefully planned and exercise is regular.
The calorie myth and the truth about weight loss
Why less food is not always the solution
For a long time, weight loss was thought to be based on a simple formula: eat less, move more. But research shows that this equation is not always true. It’s not just calories that affect metabolism, but also hidden environmental factors. Among the most important are so-called obesogens – toxins that can disrupt hormonal and metabolic processes and make weight loss more difficult.
Obesity can affect:
- metabolic rate,
- hormonal balance,
- mitochondrial function,
- a feeling of appetite and satiety,
- a way to store fat.
That’s why weight loss is not just a question of calories, but mainly about how we relieve the body of toxic influences and support natural metabolic processes.
Obesogenic: how toxins make metabolism harder
Obesogens are chemicals from the environment that can upset the hormonal balance associated with weight management. When they build up in the body, losing weight becomes significantly more difficult.
The most common sources of obesogens:
- plastics – bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates,
- pesticides and herbicides – residues on fruit and vegetables,
- Processed foods – artificial sweeteners, preservatives,
- cosmetics – parabens, synthetic fragrances,
- cleaning products – detergents, softeners,
- heavy metals – mercury, lead, cadmium.
How do obesogens affect the body?
- Metabolism: can damage mitochondria (cellular “power plants”), reducing energy production and slowing down basal metabolism.
- Hormones: interfere with thyroid function, increase the risk of insulin resistance, impair the effectiveness of leptin (the satiety hormone) and increase cortisol levels.
- Fat storage: they stimulate the formation of new fat cells, accelerate fat storage and inhibit fat breakdown.
- Inflammation: can trigger low-grade chronic inflammation that makes weight loss difficult, stimulates insulin resistance and interferes with hormone signalling.
Hormones and weight loss: the hidden conductors of metabolism
Calories and exercise play a role in weight loss, but they are not the whole story. It is often the case that, despite carefully planned diets and regular exercise, results do not happen. One reason for this may be a hormonal imbalance that determines whether fat is used up or stored.
How hormones affect weight:
- insulin – stable levels allow for better fat burning,
- leptin – the satiety hormone that tells the brain when enough is enough,
- Thyroid hormones – regulate the metabolic rate,
- cortisol – a stress hormone that, in excess, promotes fat accumulation.
Natural ways to support hormonal balance:
- time-limited feeding (14-16 hours of fasting),
- quality sleep (7-9 hours, preferably before midnight),
- stress management (meditation, yoga, nature walks),
- regular physical activity (a combination of strength training and aerobic exercise).
Hormones are therefore the “hidden conductors” that can determine whether a diet works or not – so optimising them is key to long-term weight loss.
Signs of toxic burden in weight loss
How to identify toxic load
If you’re trying hard and the results just won’t come, it could be due to toxic stress. Often, our bodies are just sending us warning signs – we just need to listen.
The most common signs:
- Repeated yo-yo effect – weight comes back quickly after dieting.
- Slowed metabolism – feeling cold, constant tiredness.
- Hormonal disorders – irregular cycles, PMS, libido fluctuations.
- Insulin resistance – a strong craving for sweet things.
- Fat around the abdomen – particularly stubborn visceral fat.
- Chronic fatigue – low energy despite enough sleep.
- Digestive problems – bloating, constipation.
- Mood swings – irritability, depression, less motivation.
If several of these signs appear at the same time, it may be a signal that the body needs support in natural detoxification – even before starting a strict diet.
Natural strategies for detoxification
Reducing exposure to obesogens
Detoxification does not start with dietary supplements, but with everyday choices – from the food we eat to the products we use at home. But when we want to further support our metabolic pathways, targeted food supplements can also help.
Nutrition
- Choose organic food,
- Eliminate processed foods with additives,
- drink filtered water instead of water from plastic bottles,
- use glass or stainless steel for storage and cooking,
- cook in Teflon- and aluminium-free containers.
Avoid
- processed foods with added sugar,
- trans fats and oxidised oils,
- refined carbohydrates,
Home and personal care
- replace conventional cleaning products with natural ones,
- use cosmetics free of parabens, phthalates and SLS,
- Ventilate rooms regularly and add houseplants,
- Avoid synthetic fragrances and air fresheners.
Small daily changes can reduce the toxic load and support natural detoxification processes in the long term – which can be a great foundation for easier weight loss and better well-being.
For a complete detoxification plan with diet, exercise and liver support, read the blog:
Natural Detox: How to support the body’s cleansing processes in 21 days
How to support your liver for better metabolism and easier weight loss
The liver is involved in more than 500 metabolic functions, including fat breakdown, hormone processing and detoxification. When the liver is functioning optimally, the path to efficient metabolism is much easier.
Foods that support the liver
- Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, cauliflower) – contain substances that activate detoxifying enzymes,
- Bitter greens (artichoke, dandelion, endive) – stimulate bile flow,
- Citrus fruits – rich in vitamin C, which contributes to the production of glutathione,
- Green tea – contains catechins, which are involved in fat metabolism,
- Omega-3s (oily fish, flaxseed) – help regulate inflammation.
You can read more about how a clogged liver affects metabolism in this blog:
Clogged liver (NAFLD): Natural strategies to restore and protect the liver
Optimising the gut microbiome
About 80% of immune cells are located in the gut, so a healthy microbiome has an important impact not only on metabolism and hormone balance, but also on detoxification, neurotransmitter production and the metabolism of nutrients and vitamins.
Strategies for a healthy gut
- fermented foods – kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha,
- prebiotic fibre – onions, garlic, artichokes,
- varied diet – include at least 20 different types of vegetables, fruit and nuts a week,
- judicious use of antibiotics – only when really necessary,
- Stress management – chronic stress has a negative effect on beneficial bacteria.
Mitochondrial support for faster metabolism
Mitochondria – the “energy centres” of our cells – convert nutrients into energy and play a key role in burning fat. When they are efficient, metabolism works faster and the body can more easily use fat as an energy source.
Essential amino acids (EAAs)
During weight loss, we often lose muscle, which slows down our metabolism. EAAs support protein synthesis, protect muscle mass and help maintain metabolic activity. At the same time, they contribute to satiety, more energy and faster recovery, reducing the risk of the yo-yo effect.
C8 MCT oil
C8 MCT oil is the fastest to convert into ketones – clean fuel for the brain and muscles. It provides stable, crash-free energy, clarity of thought and increased satiety, while boosting fat metabolism and supporting the maintenance of ketosis.
Energy metabolism is largely dependent on mitochondria – read more about this in this article: Mitochondria: How to optimise cellular powerhouses for more energy and health
Active detoxification and the 21-day plan
Supporting detoxification can help the body to reduce excess stress, relieve metabolic stress and maintain hormonal balance.
Below you will find a 21-day plan that guides you step by step through the three phases – preparation, activation and stabilisation. This approach helps your body to switch to efficient energy use and gradually establish a better metabolic balance. This way, you can help your body release the stresses and prepare the foundations for more sustainable weight loss results in just three weeks.
Simple methods to support detoxification
- infrared sauna (2-5 times a week),
- dry brushing of the skin,
- cold baths,
- deep breathing,
- massage and regular exercise.
21-day plan
Week 1 – Adaptation
- eliminate obesogens from your diet,
- Introduce time-limited feeding (16 : 8),
- Drink about 35 ml of water per kilogram of body weight,
- increase your vegetable intake.
Week 2 – Activation
- add targeted food supplements to support detoxification,
- include an infrared sauna or Epsom baths,
- stimulate lymphatic flow through movement,
- get a good night’s sleep.
Week 3 – Stabilisation
- include fermented foods,
- do strength training (2 times a week),
- monitor changes in your body composition,
- develop a long-term strategy to support your metabolism.
Holistic support for weight loss
Calorie restriction is not enough for long-term weight loss results. It’s also important to support your muscles, energy and natural detoxification processes. A combination of three supplements that work synergistically with each other seems to be a good choice:
- AminoElite+ – preserves muscle mass, contributes to energy metabolism and speeds up recovery,
- C8 MCT oil – Pure energy from organic coconut, which is quickly converted into ketones,
- DetoxComplex+ – Nutritional support for natural detoxification processes and liver function.
Morning routine: 1 sachet AminoElite+ + 2 capsules CellRenew
Morning: coffee with a spoon C8 MCT oil and butter
Evening: 2 BindTox capsules with a glass of water
Frequently asked questions
Why do the pounds come back quickly after dieting?
The yo-yo effect occurs because diets often only address calories, not causes such as toxins, hormonal imbalances and slowed metabolism. When the diet ends, the weight usually returns because the underlying obstacles are not removed.
How long should detoxification last before weight loss starts?
It is advisable to support targeted detoxification for 2-3 weeks. During this time, metabolism is more easily regulated, inflammation is reduced and the body is better prepared for calorie restriction.
Can I lose weight while detoxing?
Yes. Many people experience a loss of 2-5 kg during detoxification, mainly due to the elimination of excess water and a reduction in inflammation. When the liver, digestive tract and hormones are supported, weight loss is easier and results are more easily maintained.
What are the most common weight loss mistakes?
- calorie restriction too fast,
- not enough sleep,
- excessive stress,
- eating processed “healthy” food,
- not enough protein,
- diets that are not sustainable in the long term.
Is exercise necessary for successful weight loss?
Yes. Movement is key, as muscle mass uses more energy than fat tissue, even at rest. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, regulates hormones and speeds up metabolism. The most effective exercise is a combination of walking, strength training, aerobic exercise and activity for lymphatic flow.
When to see a doctor?
If you notice:
- inexplicable weight gain,
- markedly slowed metabolism (feeling cold, tired),
- hormonal imbalances (irregular periods, reduced libido),
- insulin resistance or diabetes.
Conclusion
Weight loss is not just a matter of will, but the result of coordinated metabolic processes. When we reduce the impact of toxins, regulate hormones and support detoxification, the body can more easily return to its natural balance.
Instead of a short-term diet, choose a holistic approach that builds muscle, boosts energy and supports metabolism. This reduces the risk of the yo-yo effect and makes the results more sustainable.
Start today – not by counting calories, but by supporting the processes that keep your body vital.
Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet. Results may vary between individuals. Consult a doctor before use if you have any medical conditions or are taking medication.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet; effects may vary between individuals.
Authorship: This article was written by the Vibrant Longevity team in collaboration with Dr. Tina Prodnik – Doctor of Natural Medicine, molecular biologist and functional medicine expert.
Read also:
We also recommend these contents to support your body in detoxifying, regulating hormones and reactivating your metabolism:
- Natural Detox: How to support the body’s cleansing processes in 21 days
Learn a practical 3-week plan to activate your internal detoxification pathways and support your metabolism.
- Fatty liver (NAFLD): Natural strategies to restore and protect the liver
Discover how even mild fatty liver can affect hormones, metabolism and weight loss – and how to support your liver with natural approaches.
- Mitochondria: How to optimise cell power plants for more energy and health
Learn how to improve energy, resilience and longevity by optimising mitochondria.
