If you’re trying to lose weight and even a part of a weight loss plan and haven’t seen results it can be extremely stressful. You may constantly ask yourself, why isn’t the scale moving in the right direction? Losing weight takes effort, time, consistency, and dedication. In fact, it takes 3,500 calories to lose just one pound.

Inches vs. Weight

When you follow the weight loss program, although you may see no change on the scale, you may be losing inches. Losing inches means your clothes are looser. However, losing weight involves a process called lipolysis. For this process to occur, you have to be in a caloric deficit. Meaning, eating a strict number of calories, less than your usual intake. With this restriction, lipolysis occurs where the body breaks down stored fats and uses them for energy when there is a deficit. Importantly, your scale doesn’t know the difference between fat and water. Lipolysis will shed its water which temporarily increases the number on the scale and is ultimately water weight. If you’re losing inches, this is a great thing. Your body composition is changing and creating more muscle than fat. Muscles and fat weigh the same.

Don’t Pay Attention to the Scale

Yes, seeing a smaller number on the scale feels fulfilling, but when it comes to numbers, look at the difference in pants size or clothing size. Your body is evolving into a healthier version of you, and you may be more muscular and toned than you were before. The scale is influenced by many other factors, like water weight, hormonal changes and temporary weight gain. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see a change on the scale, there is a lot more than goes into losing weight and beginning a healthier lifestyle.

Options Medical Weight Loss, Orland Park, is designed to create the healthiest version of you. With caring support and an effective, personalized weight loss plan, we can help you reach your goal.