Losing Weight Too Quickly?

Hannahk90

Hello,

I recently started MFP and eating better in general. I quit smoking, started exercising regularly, and started watching my food intake (which is why I joined MFP because I've found it to be a great tool). With my height, weight, and everything else that they ask of you when you sign on, my daily calorie intake was set at 1200 a day. I have been eating back all of the calories I've lost while exercising, and have even gone over by a little bit on occasion. I've been eating mostly whole foods, with the occasional granola bar or cereal thrown in on occasion. However, in the past week I've lost 5 pounds. I weigh myself every morning when I get up, and while I'm excited to be losing so much so quickly, I'm concerned it isn't necessarily healthy. I know you are only supposed to lose approximately 2 pounds a week, but I lost that in about 2-3 days. I went from 167 to 162.3 in exactly a week, which I feel is a little extreme. Is it just water weight and that's why I'm losing so much? I know that the heavier you are, the more you will lose since there's more to lose, but I am 5'4" and as of today 162.3 pounds, which while slightly overweight is not very drastic, which is why I'm a little concerned. If anyone has any feedback, I'd greatly appreciate it.

Awkward30

I would say that is too quickly... If it continues. Most people drop weight quickly at first, then it slows. Water weight or whatever it is. I would give it another week and if you are still losing too fast, go up 300 cals or so.

michellekicks

If it's your first week, it's mostly water weight. In week 2 your loss should be more reasonable. Just keep doing what you're doing and as long as you're eating your exercise calories back, you're doing fine.

I am a Weight Watchers lifetime member and EVERYONE who starts a regimented diet program loses water weight the first week... usually 3-7 lbs or so. After that it's down to 1-2 for most people.

adietron

I think you might be weighing yourself too frequently too... your water weight can fluctuate up to 2 pounds per day, which might be feeding into your worry.

Try weighing yourself once a week instead (Sunday morn as soon as you wake up?). Move the scale into a closet and resist the temptation to step on it. If you're still losing 5 lbs a week in 2 weeks, it might be time to up your calories/nutrients and call your doctor.