Why the number on the scale doesn't matter

You are doing well with sports and exercise and pay attention to your diet. You feel more energetic and feel better about yourself. Yet the number on the scales just won't go down (or if you are trying to gain weight: up). Sound familiar?

Our weight changes every day due to various factors. For example, did you eat a lot of salty food the day before weighing? Then your body retains more fluid, which can affect your weight. The same goes for things like constipation, menstruation, etc., which can also cause (temporary) weight gain. Although the scale is a useful tool for some people to measure progress, it is important not to focus too much on the number on the scale if it is not necessary.

Personally, I use various weighing and measuring methods to get a complete picture of progress, where I don't just look at weight. An example of this is following the ratio of muscle to fat mass. Muscle mass weighs more than fat mass, but muscles do increase your metabolism.

Also pay attention to other signs that you are making progress, such as higher energy levels, improved mood, guilt-free eating and an improved relationship with food, and feeling better in your clothes.