Why did I stop losing weight?

As you lose weight, your body burns fewer calories for the same activity, so the deficit you started with slowly shrinks. Tracking gaps — oil, sauces, weekends — are the other common cause.

How do I know if I have hit a plateau?

Your weekly average weight stays flat for at least two weeks while you are tracking accurately. A few days of the same number on the scale is normal fluctuation, not a plateau.

Does a diet break help a plateau?

It can, after around eight weeks of dieting. Eating at maintenance for seven days gives your body and mind a rest, then you return to your deficit. Try the smaller fixes first: fewer calories, more steps or some cardio.

Weight Loss Plateau: What to Do When You Stop Losing

Weight Loss Plateau: Why You Stopped Losing Weight and What to Do NowStopped losing weight? Why plateaus happen, how to confirm one with your weekly average, and 3 simple fixes, plus when a diet break makes sense.