12 common weight loss mistakes to avoid

Most people want to lose weight fast. And most people want a quick fix to do it. But this is the first mistake you could make when trying to losing weight.

The route to successful and long term weight loss is where the road is healthy, sustainable and one that fits into your life. Make the road too bumpy, too bendy, too steep or too hard to travel and you will take the nearest and first exit sign.

So our Healthy Mummy philosophy is all about healthy eating and long term sustainability and below are the most common weight loss mistakes that so many people make. Have a look if you are making them and don’t worry if you are – they are easy to fix so you can get back on track.

Top 12 Weight Loss Mistakes

Here are the top 12 weight loss mistakes so you can see what not to do and we always advise working out your BMR so you know how many calories you need each day!

1.Thinking the weight will just fall off if you take a magic pill or potion

It won’t. Weight loss takes commitment and healthy weight loss should be done over a sensible period of time with the aim to lose 1-2 pounds a week.

The focus should be on healthy eating, cutting out junk food and exercising. Pills which claim to ‘lose weight fast’ are not healthy, can lead to all kinds of side effects and are not safe in breastfeeding. Our 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge can help you lose weight healthily. You can learn more about our Challenge HERE.

2.Not eating ENOUGH protein 

Protein is critical in weight loss. It helps to keep you fuller, build lean muscle and helps to boost the metabolism. You should aim for some protein at every time you eat but it should always be combined with complex carbohydrates, fruit or vegetables to ensure your body is getting a good balance of nutrients that work well together and aid absorption and digestion.

 

3.Eating too many carbs

Carbohydrates in the form of vegetables and wholegrain pasta, rice and bread are good (white and processed bread and pasta is bad for weight loss) but you should watch your portion size. Keep to 1/4 of your plate size to carbohydrates and 1/4 protein and 1/2 veggies. If you consume too many, you will be consuming too many calories.

4.Not getting enough fibre

Fibre and looking after your inner health is critical for helping to lose stomach fat and ensuring adequate nutrient absorption. Fibre helps your body to detox and get rid of the toxins plus helps you feel fuller for longer.

5.Not drinking enough water

Water is critical for helping to rid the body of waste and toxins and thirst can often be mistook for hunger so always drink water at the first signs of hunger. Our 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge App can also help you track your water intake.

6.Eating infrequently

For the metabolism to work effectively it needs to be refuelled every few hours. So make sure if you always have some healthy snacks on hand to snack on and don’t skip meals.

7.Not exercising enough

Weight loss is 80 per cent diet but it is important to still do exercise.

The exercise will increase your metabolism, release feel good endorphins, help you tone up and increase weight loss. Aim for a 30 minute fast walk every day plus incorporate exercises that use the larger muscle groups to boost metabolism such as squats, mini push ups or light weights

8.Keep junk food out of the house

You need to throw out all junk food as if you keep it in the house there will be moments of weakness and you will binge. Chuck it all out!

9.Not being motivated enough

You need to be really honest with yourself and write down why you want to lose the weight. Really think about it and keep your reasons close at hand so when you feel demotivated you look back at your reasons and keep going.

10.Incorrect portion size

Unless your partner weighs a similar amount to you, you should not be having the same portion size! Your plate should be split into 1/4 wholegrain carbohydrates, 1/4 lean protein and 1/2 veggies. If you watch your portion size you will have your weight under control.

11.Not eating enough

Many mums think eating too little is the key to weight loss. This intact can interfere with your metabolism, send your body into starvation mode and actually prevent you losing weight. It is important to eat the right number of calories for your body – work out your BMI to ensure you know your number.

12.Putting too much pressure on yourself and not being in the right frame of mind

Make sure you are in the right frame of mind before trying to lose weight and when you are ready make sure you set realistic goals.

So, if you are making ANY of these weight loss mistakes – it’s time to stop them RIGHT NOW! Join the 28 Day Weight Loss Challenge – we can help.