Losing weight is not easy. A weight loss journey requires commitment. You must have the tenacity to keep going when the scale doesn’t tell you what you want, which is most of the time. If you have hit a plateau and can’t seem to figure out why, keep reading. These tips may help you figure out why you’re not losing weight.
If you are making slow, but steady progress, keep doing what you are doing. Slow progress is great! If you have stopped seeing a change in the scale for multiple weeks, try making these adjustments to restart your weight loss.
Do a diet check
Trying to “eat better” will only get you so far. If you’re not losing weight, it may be time to take a closer look at your diet. Use a diet app like MyFitnessPal to track your food intake. Record everything you eat and drink. Everything.
Track your food for a couple weeks. This may seem like a long time, but you need time to really see your average intake. Once you’ve done that, use a calorie calculator, like this one, to see how many calories you should be eating to reach your goals. If you are eating more than what that calculator says, it is time to make some changes.
As you track your food intake, keep an eye on how much protein you are consuming. If you are exercising regularly, you need to eat a good amount of protein. Your muscles need that protein to fully develop.
Change up your workout routine
If your workout isn’t changing your body, it is time to change your workout. As you get stronger, your workouts should get stronger with you. Add new exercises to your gym routine. Change up your reps, sets, and rest time. Do a different form of cardio. Just try something different and see if your body responds.
Check out one of my MFit home workout plans to challenge your body at home. Try the Beginner’s Program if you are just getting into exercise. Start the Flat Abs Plan if you want some new core and cardio routines. There is something for everyone on MFit. I am confident my workouts will help push you past that plateau.
Check in with your sleep
Not getting enough sleep can affect your cortisol levels in a negative way. Your cortisol levels affect your metabolism, blood sugar levels and overall health. Read this Shape article for more information on how sleep can impact your weight loss journey.
If you have tried all of the above things and are still struggling, please go talk to your doctor and get some blood work done. Your weight loss struggles could very well be due to a deeper issue such as, hormone imbalance, thyroid complications, and certain diseases. If your body is telling you no, find out why!