Advertisement

Why your weight fluctuates and 5 easy fixes

Despite your best efforts, your weight goes up and down, seemingly uncontrollably. Here's why.

An Image
1 / 6

If you’re on a journey to drop pounds, weight fluctuations can be a bit disappointing. But don’t get discouraged; the causes of these increases and decreases may be beyond your control. Water retention, hormones and the time of day you weigh in could be to blame for inconsistencies.

Rest assured, fluctuations in your weight are normal—most of the time. Here are fiveShow More

pouring glass of water
2 / 6
You're retaining water

The human body is about 60 percent water and 40 percent other stuff, and it's always working to maintain that general equilibrium. Throughout the day, as you take in water from food and drink, your kidneys, hormones and other hormone-like substances collaborate to remove excess fluid, which is thenShow More

young woman lifting weights at gym
3 / 6
You're Gaining Muscle

Since muscle is denser than fat, if you gain muscle and lose fat, you can gain weight while looking slimmer. If your weight loss regimen includes pumping iron or doing pushups, the increase on the scale could be blamed on new muscle.

So how does this work? Often, when your muscles experience trauma,Show More

woman with stomach pain due to constipation
4 / 6
You need to use the bathroom

So, you’re backed up—it happens to the best of us. Constipation—difficult or less frequent bowel movements—can be caused by a number of factors, including medication, stress, a diet low in fiber or a lack of water or exercise.

But how much does it affect the number on the scale? One study suggestsShow More

An Image
5 / 6
You carb-loaded

We all need carbohydrates, the body’s main source of energy. Despite this, dieters often feel they need to avoid carb-heavy foods—like rice, pasta and bread—in hopes of shedding pounds. But nobody is perfect; maybe you had a few extra beers or indulged at the Italian restaurant last night.

WhateverShow More

man on scale
6 / 6
You weigh in at different times

It’s common to weigh less in the morning, especially after going to the bathroom, than after a full day of eating and drinking. We stuff ourselves throughout the day, and regardless of how healthily we eat, that mass of undigested food and drink pushes the numbers on the scale upward. For moreShow More

More On

What are the best lean protein options for weight loss?

video

What are the best lean protein options for weight loss?
For a truly satisfying meal or snack, protein is the way to go. "Hungry Girl" author Lisa Lillien lists her three go-to protein choices, why they're h...
8 must-know facts about weight management

article

8 must-know facts about weight management
Setting out on a weight-loss journey can be overwhelming. Start out with these expert-backed insights.
5 weight loss myths you should stop believing

slideshow

5 weight loss myths you should stop believing
Want to keep the belly bulge at bay? Get one expert’s advice on how to avoid some dietary pitfalls.
FDA approves new weight loss drug Zepbound

video

FDA approves new weight loss drug Zepbound
The FDA approved Zepbound, an injection to manage weight loss in adults with obesity who also have other health conditions.
What is gastric bypass surgery?

video

What is gastric bypass surgery?
Gastric bypass surgery can be a life-saving option for people who are severely overweight or obese. Learn how it's done from James "Butch" Rosser Jr.,...