Plateaus

Frustrating, isn’t it? But is it 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 the plan closely — then, maybe. (Remember: a safe rate of weight loss is 0.5-2lbs a week.)

Plateaus can happen when the energy in, energy out equation goes out of balance, 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 heeding your hunger signals.

How do I get through a plateau?

• Go back to basics: Eat as you did during your first weeks on plan. 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. It helps burn energy which, along with eating less, can help break the plateau.

• Focus on non-scale success. Your journey isn’t just about that number. Non-scale wins (like looser jeans, better sleep, or more energy) matter, too! And 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.