How to Handle a Weight Loss Stall

The motivation to keep pushing forward, even in the face of adversity, is a challenge that those struggling with obesity know well. Many bariatric patients try to lose weight through diet and exercise alone and eventually make the decision to have weight loss surgery to achieve their weight loss goals.

Weight loss surgery is one of the most effective ways to achieve health and wellness, and directly after surgery most patients will see a significant decrease in weight. However, after this initial decrease in weight many patients will hit a weight loss plateau that, while normal, can be frustrating.

There’s no need to panic, these weight loss stalls are completely normal, even when you are maintaining the same diet and exercise plan that lead to your initial weight loss. It is important to recognize when a weight loss plateau is your body’s metabolism adjusting to your new weight and dietary habits.

While a weight loss plateau is usually natural, it’s important that you don’t let frustration lead to a decrease in motivation towards your new way of living. The clinical staff at DFW Bariatric Institute is always available to help you in your journey. Additionally, there are some key steps that you can take to make sure that you continue to lose weight, even when your metabolism has adjusted. Follow these steps to continue achieving your weight loss goals and remember that we are always here to support you in your weight loss journey.

Take Measurements

The scale not moving isn’t always indicative of negative results. With adequate protein intake and rigorous exercise you can lose fat and gain muscle, which means while the scale might not be showing weight loss your body is still reacting positively. That’s why it’s important to take measurements and track your progress, as reductions in key body measurements can often show what the scale doesn’t.

Journal-

Tracking your progress is essential when it comes to having a clear picture of what might be causing your weight loss stall. While for many it may be metabolism or muscle related, for some it can be a result of returning to unhealthy habits. An accurate journal will help you determine what might be causing the weight loss plateau, and if it is exercise and diet related help you determine the correct step to get back on track.

Change Diet and Exercise

Even if you are staying on track in terms of calorie intake and your exercise plan you might still have to make adjustments as the body starts to become accustomed to your new way of living. Looking at how you are intaking calories is especially critical as eating unhealthy carbohydrates and not enough lean protein can cause weight loss stalls. If you have any questions about your dietary needs, we suggest scheduling an appointment with the dietician at DFW Bariatric Institute; her knowledge and experience guiding bariatric patients can help you optimize your eating plan. It’s also important to diversify your exercise routine as your body will need more rigorous exercise to elevate your heart rate.

Find a Community

At DFW Bariatric Institute, we offer a number of weight loss resources including exercises, healthy recipes, and weight loss tips that can help our patients stay on track. If you’re feeling frustrated by a weight loss stall, our experienced and compassionate staff is always available to support you on your weight loss journey. Contact us with any questions or to schedule an appointment.