A 28 Year Old Redditor Lost 40Lbs in 2 Months, but Hit a Plateau What to Do?

Redditor's 40lbs weight loss plateau

The anonymous 28-year old Reddit user is on a weight loss journey, having lost 40lbs in just two months through daily lifting and dieting with MyFitnessPal. However, recently he's had difficulty in losing any more weight, despite his strict calorie intake, which is below his goal of 2800. Can science provide any advice for those struggling with weight loss plateau?

Why hitting a plateau is common in weight loss

It's important to realize that hitting a plateau in weight loss is common, and happens when the body adapts to the changes you've made. This can result in a slow-down in metabolism, which can prevent further weight loss. However, this doesn't mean it's time to give up. Rather, you might need to modify your approach.

How to overcome a plateau

There are several things the Reddit user can try, such as increasing intensity or weight of his lifting routine, adding high-intensity interval training, and reducing low-quality carb intake while increasing protein. Additionally, taking a break from dieting can also help. This is referred to as diet-break, where you maintain your current weight by increasing your calorie intake to suit your basal metabolic rate, before resuming weight loss again. Remember, each body is unique, so personalized changes may be needed.

Why patience and perseverance matter

It's important to be patient and persistent, and not to be too hard on oneself when weight loss plateaus. Making sustainable lifestyle changes that you can stick with for the long term is key to maintaining weight loss. It's also important to track progress beyond the scale, such as how you feel or how your clothes fit, as these can be a better indication of progress than just the number on the scale.

Conclusion

Weight loss plateaus can be a frustrating experience, but with the right approach and mindset, can be overcome. The key is to modify and personalize your approach, be patient, and persistent. Remember, each body is unique, so it's important to find what works for you. Don't hesitate to seek professional help if needed, as a registered dietitian or personal trainer can create a tailored plan that is best suited to your needs.