Now more than ever it’s important to remove as much stress as you can from your life… and that may include stepping away from the scales.
That piece of metal in the bathroom can actually control your emotions, make you feel happy or sad and lead to an unhealthy obsession. Here’s why it’s important to step away:
The number on the scale does not reflect true health: We need to stop assuming that the number on the scale or “being thin” automatically means you are healthier. A heavier person may actually have better overall health due to lifestyle choices like eating a balanced diet and working out. Focus on sustainable healthier habits.
Muscle V’s fat: How many people assume muscle weighs more than fat? As you work out, you are building lean muscle which actually weighs the same as fat. So although the number on the scales do not change, your clothes maybe looser. It’s important to know the difference between losing weight and losing body fat as this this is what really counts.
Your weight fluctuates every day. If you are weighing yourself each day - stop! Water retention, hormones or salt intake can all affect that number on the scale, which means it is not a true reflection of your weight anyway.
Losing weight will make me faster: Being lighter doesn’t always equal faster. In fact, if you are restricting your diet, you may also be losing muscle which can result in you becoming weaker, having less power and being slower.
Trust your clothes: If you’re clothes are fitting you better and you manage to fit into last year’s jeans then you are achieving results. Trust your clothes and not the number on the scales.
Your health is about more than your weight: Those numbers do not reflect the bigger picture of your health and wellbeing – such as your energy, happiness, self-esteem. It can make it extremely difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle if your mindset is not in the right place. In addition, if you lose weight, will that actually make you any happier?
Scales can lead to an unhealthy obsession: Unfortunately it is common for people to use the number on the scales to define who they are and start to obsess about the number each day. This then becomes the focus of their lives and becomes an unhealthy obsession. Focusing on your overall health and wellbeing is far more important for you mentally and physically.
That number can affect the rest of your day: Seeing the number on the scales go up or remain the same can make you feel disheartened. This feeling can then often stay with you for the rest of the day – affecting your confidence, self-esteem or eve your motivation. However, that number does not reflect your body height, size or what’s going on internally. Instead, focus on your overall health and wellbeing.
If you have any concerns or need advice speak to our in-house Nutritionist.