Reasons you aren't losing weight

You're dieting and exercising, but still the scale won't budge. What gives? People make common mistakes when it comes to trying to slim down, so if you're not seeing the results you're after, here are some possible reasons why.



You overeat healthy foods. Nuts, avocados, whole wheat pasta, olive oil, and dark chocolate are all natural and healthy, but they aren't void of calories. You still need to watch how much you eat of the good stuff.

You drink your calories. This is especially true in the Summer when we're all looking for ways to cool off. Choose crisp water, fruit-flavored seltzer, or unsweetened iced tea, and be mindful of how much fruit juice, sodas, cocktails, and specialty frozen drinks you gulp down.

Your partner isn't on the same healthy road as you. I'm not one to point fingers, but you can't expect to lose weight if your husband constantly suggests ordering takeout, wants to go out for ice cream, or encourages you to sleep in instead of hitting the gym. Communicate that you need his support in losing weight.

You're addicted to condiments and toppings. A salad is one of the healthiest meals you can have, but when you top it with bacon bits, goat cheese, nuts, dried fruits, and ranch dressing, you can double the calorie amount in a flash. Be aware of how many calories those extras add on.


You never measure your food or keep a food journal. A serving size of cereal is about one cup, and chances are, if you eyeball that amount in your bowl, you'll end up with way extra calories than you thought. So keep measuring cups and spoons on hand to make sure your serving sizes are appropriate. Writing down what you eat each day will also help you monitor your daily caloric intake.

You think walking your pooch around the block is enough exercise. A 15-minute stroll is better than nothing, but don't expect to see dramatic weight loss results. You've got to kick it up a notch big time and do 30 minutes a day of heart-pumping exercise. Big calorie and fat burners include running, spinning class, interval training, hiking, and circuit training.

You're overindulging in low-fat or light foods. You pick up some frozen yogurt and because it's lower in calories and fat than ice cream, you think it's OK to pound down half the pint. You'll probably end up consuming more calories than you would if you just ate a regular-sized portion of the real thing.

You're on a diet, well sort of. Whether you're on Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, or following your own diet and exercise plan, you can't do it halfheartedly and expect to see results. Stay committed to your plan, or you'll see the pounds stay on your tush instead of dropping from the scale.

You go out to eat a lot. Hitting your favorite restaurant is a great way to unwind, but you're more likely to indulge in a huge meal complete with apps, drinks, fried foods, and dessert. Calorie amount is also a mystery since foods aren't labeled. If you don't want to give up your nights out, split a meal with a friend, order healthy options like salads and grilled chicken, and sip water instead of wine.