Plateaus

So you've been following the program for a while now. You've been making healthy eating choices. You've been trying to move a little more. But when you step on the scale, expecting to see a sizeable drop...nothing's changed.

Frustrating, right? Could it be the dreaded weight-loss plateau?

If your average weekly loss for the past four weeks is less than half a pound a week — and you’ve been following your plan closely — then...maybe. (Remember: A safe rate of weight loss is 0.5-2 lbs a week.)

Plateaus can happen when you stop reducing your energy intake, either through food or activity. But most of the time, plateaus happen when you drift a little. You get comfortable following the plan and maybe you ease up on weighing and measuring your food, tracking, or taking note of your hunger signals.

How do I get through a plateau?

Go back to basics. Eat like you did during your first few weeks on plan. Make sure to use your tracker if you’ve been less consistent and weigh and measure your foods. Whatever worked early on will likely help get you back on track now.

Ramp up your activity. Exercise will help burn energy which, along with eating less, can help break through a plateau.

Focus on non-scale success. Your journey isn’t just about weight loss. Non-scale victories (like looser jeans, better sleep, or more energy) matter, too! Don’t forget to keep your “Why” close by. Remember why you joined Weight Watchers in the first place. It will keep you motivated and moving forward, and that’s what will get you to your ultimate goal.