Breaking Through the Winter Weight Loss Plateau
Entering the Winter season can be a challenging time for many individuals on their weight loss journey, as we are often faced with what is known as a weight loss plateau. You may notice a halt in your progress despite continuing with your diet and exercise routine - it's like hitting a roadblock! This can be incredibly frustrating and unmotivating, especially when you're putting in the work but not seeing the outcomes you want. To conquer the Winter weight loss plateau, we've gathered several strategies to overcome this and help you get back on track to continue progressing towards your goals.
What causes a Winter weight loss plateau?
A Winter weight loss plateau can happen for various reasons, such as metabolic changes, hormonal fluctuations, or your body adapting to your diet and exercise habits. As the temperature drops, we may have reduced physical activity with a desire to stay indoors and a stronger appetite to indulge in comfort foods with the lead up to the festive season. However, don't be discouraged - this is all normal and happens to the best of us! It is important that we understand why this setback occurs, the normality of it and how we can make adjustments to defeat the plateau.
Modify Exercise Routine
Outdoor activity is often limited in Winter due to weather conditions making it either too cold, rainy and overall unpredictable! To beat the chill and stay on top of your progress, check out our articles for indoor exercise and warm up activities you can achieve to continue maintaining physical activity through the colder months:
Equipment Free Strength Workout
Mindful Eating
During the Winter season, we are often indulging in comfort foods that can steer you off track. To avoid putting a halt in your progress, we need to remember the importance of mindful eating. Mindful eating encourages a healthy approach to nutrition and wellness, all of which contribute to overall well-being and a healthier relationship with food.
Mindful eating, including eating in moderation, brings about better digestion, improved nutrient absorption and overall better physical health. This can also lead to a positive attitude reducing stress levels and promoting a balanced lifestyle.
A few tips for keeping your portions in check include: Using a smaller plate, meal prepping, keeping a food diary and snacking smart.
Sleep Quality
Prioritising sleep alongside diet and exercise can significantly contribute to successful weight loss and maintenance. Maintaining quality sleep is essential for weight loss as it contributes to good mental, emotional and physical help. Studies have also shown that poor sleep quality can lead to weight gain. We recommend getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking an adequate of water and staying properly hydrated is often over-looked when it comes to overcoming the Winter weight loss plateau as we tend to prioritise other areas. Staying hydrated is an essential aspect of any weight loss plan as overtime this can boost metabolism and help reduce food intake, especially when consumed before meals. If you find water a bit uninspiring, here are 5 healthy and delicious ways to make drinking water more enjoyable.
Increase Protein and Fibre Intake
Introducing more protein and fibre to your diet is a simple yet impactful way to get over the weight loss plateau. Protein possesses qualities that enhance metabolism and stimulate the production of hormones that help reduce appetite, keeping you feeling fuller for an extended period. Increasing fibre intake slows down digestion and decreases calorie absorption from other foods, which can also reduce your appetite.
Looking for a convenient, nutritious and delicious way to get more protein and fibre into your diet? Our Meal Replacement Shakes are the way to go. These low flavoursome shakes are formulated to assist with weight loss and management and are filled with essential vitamins and minerals to keep you fuller, more energised and satisfied.