If you’ve ever tried diets or easy weight loss programs, then you probably have hit a much-dreaded plateau at one time or another—and often ...
If you’ve ever tried diets or easy weight loss programs, then you probably have hit a much-dreaded plateau at one time or another—and often times, it’s those last five pounds. After months of seeing results, the plateau strikes and tries to shake your confidence and motivation—but you don’t have to let it. When the scale stops budging, there are a few things you can do to break down the wall and lose those last five pounds that stand between you and your weight loss goals.
Re-visit the basics. Once you’ve been following diets or easy weight loss programs for a while, it can be easy to get a little lax when it comes to how much you’re eating and portion sizes. This is a good time to re-evaluate your program and get your portion sizes back in check. Start by logging your meals again for a few days to see where you can make some important cuts or identify any culprits that may be setting you back. Then take another hard look at your portion sizes and make sure you’re not underestimating them. Bring out the old measuring cups and do a full survey of your next few meals to make sure you aren’t going over your portion budget.
Move it more. As you have probably learned, physical activity and exercise can really boost your weight loss efforts and rev your metabolism. If you’ve hit a plateau or are trying to get those last five pounds to budge, chances are that increasing the intensity and duration of your workouts will help bolster your efforts. If you aren’t exercising at all, then try to incorporate some basic physical activity and extra movement into your daily activities. Even taking a few short walks here and there will help.
Re-visit the basics. Once you’ve been following diets or easy weight loss programs for a while, it can be easy to get a little lax when it comes to how much you’re eating and portion sizes. This is a good time to re-evaluate your program and get your portion sizes back in check. Start by logging your meals again for a few days to see where you can make some important cuts or identify any culprits that may be setting you back. Then take another hard look at your portion sizes and make sure you’re not underestimating them. Bring out the old measuring cups and do a full survey of your next few meals to make sure you aren’t going over your portion budget.
Move it more. As you have probably learned, physical activity and exercise can really boost your weight loss efforts and rev your metabolism. If you’ve hit a plateau or are trying to get those last five pounds to budge, chances are that increasing the intensity and duration of your workouts will help bolster your efforts. If you aren’t exercising at all, then try to incorporate some basic physical activity and extra movement into your daily activities. Even taking a few short walks here and there will help.
Watch the drinks. Many people forget to track what they’re drinking when they diet. Sugar-laden juices, soda, alcohol and even some coffee drinks can pack on the pounds if you’re not careful. Often times they have no nutritional value but really pack on the calories and sugar. Stay away from the heavy drinks and drink as much water as you can.
image: healthyliving.msn.com
