We all have different health concerns that can play a role in what we can eat and how we can move. Everyone is different, and the same behaviors that result in weight loss for one person, may not work – or not work as quickly as desired – for the other. You have to create habits that work well for you. Rather than shocking your body into “starvation mode” and a slow metabolic state, it allows for metabolism to adjust properly – which helps keep the weight off. The healthiest weight loss happens gradually, with realistic, individualized changes. If your clothing loosens, you feel less swollen, and you have more energy, then the number on the scale – and that pesky plateau – shouldn’t matter. What about our muscle tone, fat stores, and hydration status? These are all key indicators of healthy shifts in body composition. Numbers are tempting to turn to, because they’re easy to track however, they don’t cover the entire picture, and they’re not good for our mental well-being. That’s right – weight, in and of itself, is an imperfect measurement and not the only thing we should be concerned with! When the number is stuck on the scale, it may also be due to complex changes in body composition – in integral component of overall health. Keep in mind, natural factors, such as salt, inflammation, and even lack of sleep, can cause short-term weight fluctuation. Plateaus may signify the need to increase your physical activity (if you’re initial routine has become too easy) and/or re-evaluate what you’ve been eating (if you’ve started to slip up). This is known as a plateau, which is a completely normal and common occurrence when losing weight. It can be frustrating when a significant amount of weight comes off at once, and then nothing comes off for a week or more. While the pounds may shed off at first, they simply aren’t worth it.Įven with a well-balanced diet and workout regimen – which is what we should follow –weight-loss isn’t always a linear experience. Not to mention, they can ruin your relationship with food. In fact, they can be more detrimental than beneficial, as they break down muscle mass and slow metabolism. They aren’t recommended for long-term weight loss. Remember this – slow and steady wins the race.įast, fad diets that call for drastic changes and caloric restriction are unsustainable and often result in disappointment and weight re-gain. Instead of giving up, try to re-think your approach to focus on your overall health. If losing weight was one of your New Year’s resolutions, you may have reached your breaking point by now.

Submitted by: Melissa Wadolowski, RD, LDN, CHC, CDCES

Why Weight Loss Isn’t Linear and What You Can Do to Stay on Track January 29, 2021

Linear body fat calculator