Your bathroom scale: That simple device looks innocent enough, but it has quite a lot of power over you, doesn’t it? Step on it first thing in the morning, and getting the “wrong” number can ruin your mood. Your bathroom scale doesn’t always want to comply with your plans for weight loss.

Or does it? You might believe your scale is the enemy, but that’s because you’re focusing too hard on the number it gives you. Remember, that number is just one indicator of your overall progress. There are other signs that your weight loss plan is working, and you should take care to observe them as well.

You’ve gained muscle. If you’re exercising regularly, you might replace lost fat with muscle. In this case, the number on the scale won’t always move, even though your body composition is changing. You’re still making progress, getting healthier every day and losing bulky body fat.

Your clothes fit better. One tried and true weight loss tip is to choose your favorite pair of jeans – perhaps a pair that haven’t fit well for a while – and try them on once per week. Over time you will notice that you can get into them again, or that they are getting looser and looser. This means you’re losing fat and toning up, no matter what your scale says.

You feel better. Weight loss isn’t all about how you look. You’re doing this for your health, and you should be feeling better both physically and emotionally. If you feel more energetic, happier, and stronger, then your weight loss and fitness plans are on track.

Your habits have changed. Do you actually enjoy your workouts now? Are you finding it easier to pass up tempting foods? Do you find yourself appreciating healthy meals, or developing a healthier attitude toward food? These are all good signs that you are changing from the inside out. Developing healthier habits is an important step to weight loss. Stick with those habits, and soon that scale will begin to move again.

Your doctor is happy with your results. Regular visits with your weight loss physician are key to your overall success. As we guide our clients with nutrition and fitness advice, we can also measure blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. If your lab results indicate improved health, this is something to celebrate! Call our office to schedule an appointment, and we can help you assess your progress and plot the future of your weight loss plan.