Did you have an indulgent Holiday Weekend? If so, you may have seen the scale take a jump. But- before you panic. Consider that this may just be a temporary fluid fluctuation. 

ust because the scale moves, doesn’t mean you are gaining or losing fat. Most fluctuations on the scale are short term & can be caused by the following: 

Dietary Changes- Consuming high-sodium foods, large meals, or indulging in high-calorie treats can cause temporary weight gain due to water retention and digestion processes.

Hydration Levels- The body’s water content can fluctuate significantly. Dehydration can lead to a temporary decrease in weight, while excess fluid retention, which can occur due to hormonal changes, high sodium intake, or certain medications, can cause weight to rise.

Hormonal Changes-Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during the menstrual cycle, can lead to temporary water retention and bloating. Many women may experience weight gain in the days leading up to & during their periods.

Exercise and Physical Activity- Regular physical activity can lead to temporary weight gain due to muscle inflammation and repair processes. 

Illness or Infection- When the body fights off an illness or infection, it can lead to weight fluctuations. Fever, inflammation, and fluid loss can all affect the number on the scale.

Medications- Some medications may lead to weight fluctuations as a side effect. This can include weight gain or loss, depending on the medication.

Menstrual Cycle- As previously mentioned, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can result in temporary weight changes, primarily due to water retention and appetite shifts.

Remember- Fluctuations on the scale are normal and part of daily life. For most women, these fluctuations are temporary and do not necessarily reflect meaningful changes in body fat. 

This is why I recommend women use the scale as just ONE measure of progress. And when doing so- focus on long-term trends rather than day-to-day variations. 

Using other measures of progress such as taking progress pictures & measurements & monitoring how your clothes are fitting can be a better indicator of your progress.

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