How to Blast Beyond the Dreaded Weight Loss Plateau

Hitting a weight loss plateau can feel like a failure. You've pushed so hard and come so far, only to hit this brick wall where your weight refuses to budge.

But it doesn't have to be. Here's why we hit a weight loss plateau, and how you can push past it to hit your goals.

Why Do We Hit a Weight Loss Plateau?

To figure out and overcome a weight loss plateau, we have to understand why it happens in the first place.

Most often, when we start a weight loss journey, we initially lose weight quickly. This is because we have extra fat storage that our bodies burn to make up for the energy deficit.

But after a bit, the weight loss eats into our muscles too, and this affects our metabolism. Our metabolism isn't working as hard as it used to, so we reach a point where energy income vs expenditure is even. So no more weight loss.

Here are a few ways to get back to the calorie deficit you need for weight loss.

Up Your Workout Routine

Look into working out harder, longer, or more often, but keep your calorie intake the same. Sometimes working out more often or more intensely is enough to push past a weight loss plateau.

Rethink Your Diet

What exactly are you eating? Are you following a strict, weight loss diet like the HCG diet?

For best weight loss results, make sure your food is high in protein and low in carbs. Eat plenty of lean meats, nuts, and other healthy foods.

Keep an eye out for extra carbs, and eliminate them. Shoot for low-carb intake.

Eat plenty of veggies. Vegetables are the weight loss super secret weapon. They're high in nutrients and fiber, but extremely low in calories. Pair veggies with every meal.

If you hit a weight loss plateau, consider cutting out alcohol and sugar. These two factors could be sabotaging your weight loss efforts.

Here are a few of our favorite healthy weight loss recipes.

Consider Intermittent Fasting

Consider intermittent fasting. Try periods where you don't eat for 36 hours, or try days when you cut your calories to 500 or less.

Include More Active Habits

Think outside the gym too. Take your dogs for an extra-long walk or play with your kids on the playground. Park your car far away from the store and carry your groceries out instead of pushing them in a cart.

The point is you need to be more active overall, not just in the gym. This will help boost your calorie deficit and help you push past the weight loss plateau.

Talk to Your Doctor

If you're struggling to break out of a weight loss plateau, talk to your doctor. There could be an underlying issue like thyroid problems.

Or, it's possible your ideal weight isn't practical for your body. So be appreciative of the weight you've already lost.

You Can Overcome a Weight Loss Plateau

It's frustrating when you hit a weight loss plateau but it doesn't have to be the end of your journey. Focus on burning more energy and eating smart. Or, look into a diet specialized for extreme weight loss to help you get there.

Keep checking back for more advice to help you hit your goal weight.