Weight loss is a challenge that millions of people around the world face every day. Nothing can be more satisfying than stepping on a scale and seeing those numbers decline. Likewise, nothing can be more depressing for some people as seeing those numbers climb. Lots of factors influence our daily weight, so how often should you weigh yourself when you are trying to lose weight?
When to Weigh Yourself
It's easy to be tempted to weigh yourself every time you pass that dreaded scale, but more often than not this will lead to even more frustration and depression. Our body weights fluctuate not only day to day but between certain times of day as well. The best thing you can do is to weigh yourself not more frequently than once a week. At this rate, you will be able to see if you've lost weight from the week before. It is also very important to weigh yourself at the same time of day. Most people prefer to weigh in the morning when they first get up. Whatever time works for you, be consistent with it.
Keep an Open Mind
Remember that certain things can affect scale readings and result in inaccurate weigh-in figures. Dehydration is one critical factor. Your scale results could be grossly inaccurate if you've been out drinking the night before, are dehydrated from exercise, are retaining water before menstruation or even from eating a salty or starchy meal. Likewise, if you are strength training, you can be building muscle (and weight) but still losing inches and body fat. It's important to look at the whole picture when considering weight loss and weighing yourself on a scale.
When in Doubt, Measure It Out
Scales aren't the only way to track weight loss. Many people find that they do not lose significant weight but can still trim inches and lose body fat. You can even buy a scale that will track body fat for you. It's a good idea to take your measurements when you start a weight-loss program and then track your inches at the same time you track your weight. The key areas to measure are: your bust/chest, waist (above the hips), and hips.
