Factors that slow weight loss

When starting a diet and noticing positive results, it is common to get excited about every pound lost.

It is common to become a bit obsessive about the scale, checking it daily and believing that every pound lost is due to the reduction of body fat.

So when the scale stops showing a lower weight or weight loss slows down, we tend to get discouraged or confused, not understanding why, despite maintaining the same practices, we no longer get the same results.

This is a common mistake and reflects inadequate weight monitoring and a lack of understanding about the body's natural processes that influence our weight.

In this guide you will discover why this happens and how to monitor your weight correctly to achieve success in your diet.

Should I change my diet if I stop losing weight?

This is an important issue, because when we notice that weight loss slows down, we think we are doing something wrong and maybe it is time to intensify or change the diet.

The first thing you should know is that a change in weight does not necessarily mean that your body fat has increased or decreased. There are several factors that influence weight, and before making adjustments to your diet, it is critical to understand them.

Fluid retention

A common phenomenon is water retention, which depends on the foods consumed. Foods high in carbohydrates and sodium tend to promote this retention, which can increase your weight by several pounds.

It would not be unusual for you to gain up to three additional pounds by retaining water. In women, this phenomenon is often linked to the menstrual cycle, which can lead to a temporary increase in weight.

How to reduce water retention?

If carbohydrates and sodium contribute to water retention, it makes sense to think about reducing your intake; however, there is something else you can do: drink more water.

Although it sounds counterintuitive, drinking more water signals your body that it does not need to store fluids, releasing the excess retained. In this way, the body will stop holding unnecessary water reserves.

Increased muscle mass

It's not just fat that affects weight. Gaining muscle mass can also increase your weight. Think of two people, one more muscular than the other: the first probably weighs more, even though he has less fat.

So, before you think that your effort is not paying off, check if you have gained muscle mass.

Hidden calories

Another factor that can slow down weight loss is "hidden calories".

This refers to unaccounted calories, which can be hidden in sauces, restaurant meals or alcohol consumption, among others.

A small increase of 200 calories a day can be enough to stop your diet from working.

Other important factors

There are other natural factors that can influence weight loss, and it is essential to know them.

The less fat you have, the harder it is to lose. If you have been dieting for a long time, it is no