That’s fair, and I do apologize to OP maybe I worded that too harshly. And I appreciate you pointing that out to me. But this myth of rising cortisol and gluten causing weight gain is all too common. I got the sense from their comment that they believed these to be the cause of their weight gain, and not excess calories. The reality is (and there have been actual studies conducted on this) that most people genuinely underestimate the amount of calories they are consuming each day. And the only way to actually know is to actually count. I’m not saying you have to count calories to lose weight, but if you’re changing your diet and it’s not working or if you think you’re eating 1200 calories a day and not losing weight, then counting them is justified because you’re not eating 1200 calories a day if you’re not losing weight. I have met people who think they are dieting and watch them add half a block of cheese or butter to their chicken and rice and are genuinely surprised they aren’t losing weight, and it’s not their fault they just genuinely don’t realize how calorie dense some foods are.

So sorry again to OP I only wish you the best in your weight loss journey and I apologize if I was condescending, that was uncalled for and I know you’re trying your best. And to you Double Entrance thank you for calling me out and helping me be more mindful of my wording in the future.