You are doing everything right; you are exercising regularly and watching your diet. So why is the scale going up? This is a common frustration, and for some, it’s enough to give up on healthy eating and exercise. Don’t give up! Here are some reasons behind that number on the scale.
Water Retention
Water influences your weight in many ways. While it’s true that drinking water helps flush your system and hydrates your cells, the variation of water content can cause the scale to fluctuate as much as ten pounds in a day.
Muscle vs Fat
It’s time to dispel a myth: muscle does not weigh more than fat. A pound of fat is the same as a pound of muscle, but as you build more muscle, it takes up less space in your body, giving you a more toned and leaner look. This can cause the number on the scale to increase. A better way to track your fitness is with a tape measure. It is more important to see improvement in your body composition and inches lost than movement on the scale.
Another factor to consider is whether you have made the necessary dietary changes to shed fat while building muscle. You may need to adjust your protein or carbohydrate intake to maximize your fat loss.
Metabolic Changes
As we age, our hormones change as well. You may notice you add on pounds much easier in your forties than you did in your twenties. Hormonal imbalance related to conditions such as hypothyroidism or endometriosis can also cause weight gain. If you notice rapid weight gain with no change to your diet or exercise, a visit to the doctor may be in order.
If you have committed to a healthier you, your weight should only be a small part of your overall plan. A personal trainer can help you reach your goals and get your mind off the scale. Contact Apex today to learn how we can help.
