Not Shedding The Pounds

Okay, so you’ve dropped a few pounds- Great, but you still haven’t reached your goal and now no matter what you do, the weight just won’t come off. Hitting a weight loss plateau can be frustrating for anyone, especially if you’ve been religiously exercising and eating right.

Plateaus are described as weeks when weight loss comes to a standstill. For some people the stress of pushing through a plateau can make them quit eating right and exercising all together. While plateaus are frustrating for most people, we hope you won’t think about giving up when you hit a plateau.

Most of us have gotten so used to having our needs met, that we always expect instant gratification, but weight loss doesn’t work that way. It’s important to realize that you didn't put this weight on over night, and you’re not getting rid of it overnight

Baltimore-based registered dietician Noralyn Wilson, an American Dietetic Association spokesperson, offers this advice- “Don’t give up. Weight loss plateaus are very common. Be patient. Plateaus are a normal part of weight loss. As you lose weight, your body needs fewer calories to function.”

The first step in getting over the plateau is to celebrate the initial weight loss, then move on. It may be time to increase the duration or the intensity of your exercise each day or to try a new physical activity that is more challenging.

"Also, if you haven’t been keeping a food diary, this might be a good time to start," says Wilson. A food diary can give you insights into your eating habits and help identify areas you might need to change. A diary will also make you think before indulging in a high fat snack that might hinder your further loss.

Another way to get through a plateau is to incorporate some strength training into your workout routine.

Also, "Consider reassessing your weight loss goal. Ask yourself if it is realistic or appropriate for you? A registered dietitian can provide strategies to help you get your weight loss plan back on track," Wilson says.

For more information on how to find dietetics professionals in your area, call ADA at 800/366-1655.

Remember, even if you have reached a plateau, try and focus on all the health benefits you are receiving. The fact is that exercising and eating right have offered you all kinds of benefits, that don’t always show up on the scale.