Tropical Weight Loss
Photo by Laura Tancredi Pexels Logo Photo: Laura Tancredi

Why am I losing weight on the scale but look the same?

YOUR BODY COMPOSITION IS CHANGING When the scale doesn't move, you are losing body fat while gaining muscle. Your weight may stay the same, even as you lose inches, a sign that you're moving in the right direction.

How to get rid of belly fat fast?
How to get rid of belly fat fast?

19 Effective Tips to Lose Belly Fat (Backed by Science) Eat plenty of soluble fiber. ... Avoid foods that contain trans fats. ... Don't drink too...

Read More »
Why do I have a big belly but I'm not fat?
Why do I have a big belly but I'm not fat?

The most common causes are trapped gas or eating too much in a short time. The sensation of bloating can cause abdominal distention, which is a...

Read More »

As a Dietitian I work with many people who are always trying to unlock the key to happiness, and their dream body. One of the many lessons I've learned is the number on the scale doesn’t really matter. What really matters is the relationship a person has with his or her own self-image, food and body.

Want to know why the number on the scale doesn’t matter?

If you are eating a healthier diet and working out and for some reason the scale doesn’t appear to move, you are not alone. This is a common problem for most people that are trying to lose weight. They focus so much on the scale that when it doesn’t move, they give up, feel terrible about themselves, and feel like a failure. Try not to let it get you down because the number on the scale does NOT tell the full story.

Here are 7 reasons why the number on the scale doesn’t matter:

1. YOUR BODY COMPOSITION IS CHANGING

Do you ever wonder why the number on the scale doesn’t move after you've made many changes to your diet and lifestyle?

When the scale doesn’t move, you are losing body fat while gaining muscle. Your weight may stay the same, even as you lose inches, a sign that you’re moving in the right direction. However , if the scale doesn’t change, you may not even be aware that you’re getting real results, especially if you are not taking your progress.

2. YOUR WEIGHT FLUCTUATES EACH DAY

If you weigh yourself daily (WHICH YOU SHOULDN’T BE DOING) you may notice the number fluctuates each day. Sometimes this could be down to water retention due to hormones or an excessive salt intake. Drink lots of water and lower your salt intake to avoid fluid retention and stop stressing over the number on the scale.

3. YOUR WEIGHT DOES NOT ALWAYS SHOW HEALTH

Just because someone is thin does not mean they are healthy. In fact a heavier person may have better overall health due to lifestyle choices like eating a balanced diet and working out. Don’t let the scale be your health gage. Focus on practicing healthier habits and be consistent. For improved health you need to make changes that you can keep to for life. Better blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels are all measures of improved health which may not change the number on the scale.

4. YOUR MUSCLE WEIGHS MORE THAN FAT RIGHT?

How much does a size 10 woman weigh?
How much does a size 10 woman weigh?

If majority rules, a size 10 has a 36″ bust, 28″ waist and a 40″ hip. She's five foot five or six inches tall and weighs 140 pounds. Oct 5, 2010

Read More »
What is the best breakfast for weight loss?
What is the best breakfast for weight loss?

14 Healthy Breakfast Foods That Help You Lose Weight Eggs. Rich in protein and a wealth of important vitamins and minerals, such as selenium and...

Read More »

Wrong! As you work out, you are building lean muscle which weighs exactly the same as fat but is leaner. if your clothes are looser but the scale is the same, this is because of the lean muscle you have built. Building lean muscle has lots of benefits. Did you know building muscle will help boost your metabolism so you can burn fat even whilst you rest?

5. YOUR CLOTHES CAN TELL THE TRUTH

Instead of determining whether you are getting results based on the scale, look at how your clothes fit. If your clothes fit better, then the number on the scale is not important. Let your clothes be the gage in deciding if you’re healthier lifestyle is paying off! If your clothes are getting looser, then by all means celebrate and buy some new clothes.

6. IT CAN BREAK YOUR DAY

If the number on the scale can make or break your day, you are not alone. It’s normal to feel disheartened when your weight is up and happier when the number is down. You could have 3 women that weigh the same but have 3 different shapes and sizes. It all depends on how much muscle and fat you carry and where! Stop focusing on your weight and just worry about adopting a healthier lifestyle. When you step on the scale you are weighing every tissue, cell, the food you ate and the glass of water you just drank. Realise the scale does not account for everything and the numbers do not show the bigger picture of fitness and health. Focus on YOUR happiness, your energy levels, and the things you love. THEN begin making the health changes you need such as a healthier diet or exercise routine. The weight will come off if you follow this approach, because the weight-loss is just a side effect of true health and happiness. Don’t forget to also focus on sleep and reduce stress levels as they can affect health and weight too. If you think you're sabotaging your weight loss with the scales and would like some support, contact me.

What drink helps burn fat?
What drink helps burn fat?

Apple cider vinegar and green tea are the best beverages when it comes to healthy drinks for weight loss. You should consume them before every meal...

Read More »
Why am I not losing weight after C-section?
Why am I not losing weight after C-section?

Your body is still healing. “Many women gain a large amount of gestational weight. And after the baby comes, you have less time to exercise, less...

Read More »
What does hot water lemon and honey do for your body?
What does hot water lemon and honey do for your body?

Lemon and honey water is like a healthy elixir, a powerhouse of nutrients. Several studies claim that this drink helps in burning fat, clears acne...

Read More »
How do you activate fat burning cells?
How do you activate fat burning cells?

Turning on your fat burning hormones Calorie intake and nutritional habits – be mindful of what you're eating; check out our article on the...

Read More »