"Stat Checking"

MCW3516

I've officially been using MFP for 3 months now. I've lost 20 lbs (I'm not sure where my weight was exactly when I started but I used 190 on MFP as my starting point). I recently created a spreadsheet to keep up with daily calorie deficit or surplus. After going back through the past 3 months my spreadsheet ((Which calculates July + Aug + Sept Deficit)/3500)) says I should have lost 15 lbs but I believe I have lost at least 20 and probably more. Is it possible that it could be that far off? I'm trying to figure out how the numbers might be skewing my perception. Could it be added muscle mass that isn't being reflected from pure calories? Water weight?

Just looking for some ideas as to why the numbers don't seem to match up with the pound I believe I've lost..

jemhh

You've cracked the code The idea that weight loss is based on 3500 cal per pound deficits is false. Fat loss would be 3500 per pound but there are other variables at play--water retention and loss, etc.--that complicate the equation.