People desire weight loss for various reasons. Some want weight loss because of physical appearance while others loss for medical reasons such as arthritis, diabetes, and heart disease. You may reach a point where your weight remains the same and you experience disappointment. What can you do?
Medical Checkup
The first thing to consider when you experience a weight loss plateau is check with your physician. He or she will be able to determine if there is a specific medical problem why you stopped losing weight. The standard individual medical history, laboratory and diagnostic tests will be given including a complete blood count. In addition, a doctor may review your activity level, prescriptions and stress levels that can create havoc on your body. After your examination, he/she would be able to determine a treatment plan with follow up visits and/or suggest other qualified health professionals.
Same Food but No Weight Loss
Your doctor may recommend a qualified nutritionist or dietician who can review your meals and accurately analyze the amount of calories needed by you based on factors such as your activity level, body type, health issues, and medications. Once he/she considers your past and current medical history/lifestyle, the two of you can schedule weekly, biweekly or monthly meetings to review all progress reports. Results may not be seen in a few days, but with a realistic plan results towards overcoming your weight loss plateau should occur.
Remember to review your health insurance plan and get prior approval, particularly if you have a managed care plan.
Same Food and Same Body
If you find yourself eating the same food but your body is not changing as before, you may need a certified personal trainer or exercise expert who can establish an individualized exercise program for you. He/she will be able to confirm a program that concentrates on frequency, duration, and intensity. For example, if you use the treadmill for 20 minutes daily, he/she may change your routine to 30 minutes daily.
Meanwhile, if strength training is missing from your exercise plan, he/she may add two to three weekly sessions to increase your metabolic rate and fat burning potential. It is important to listen to your exercise specialist who will monitor your weight loss and make appropriate recommendations towards getting past your weight loss plateau.
Eating and Cheating
A qualified health professional such as a physician, a personal trainer or a nutritionist can guide you with your weight loss plateau. However, if you cheat on your diet you will not achieve your desired results. You can enjoy some of your favorite foods in moderation. For instance, a large slice of chocolate cake can be resized to a small piece so that your body does not experience a sense of deprivation that can cause you to overeat.
It is a good idea to write a weekly meal plan on a Saturday or Sunday before you go food shopping. For desserts, list a wide array of fruits, nuts, and vegetables but add two or three of your favorite snacks to add balance.
Any of these ideas may help with your weight loss plateau but it may take time to see results.