Written by: Lisa Marotta, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
So many of us fear the scale. The number sets our mood for the day, controls how we view ourselves and tends to determine how we measure “success.” To prevent this pain, we sometimes avoid the scale.
Can this be the answer? Sure. But this can also increase fear and hatred towards the scale. Instead of running, let’s face the facts and learn. If we approach the scale with knowledge, we can build a healthy relationship instead.
Some factors to always take into consideration when weighing yourself…
1. If you haven’t made a bowel movement in the morning, don’t get upset if the scale is up. This is most likely to happen. Bowel movements play a huge role in affecting the number.
2. Consider stress. If you are more stressed than usual, it’s easy to have higher levels of cortisol. Higher levels=more bloat=water retention=scale goes up. This is why mindset is SO important! Your health starts within.
3. If you’ve changed up your routine, don’t worry if the scale increases! At first, you may maintain or gain a few pounds. This is common when you begin to work out new muscles that your body isn’t used to. Give your body time to adjust and respond.
4. High sodium is crucial! People can fluctuate even 3-7 pounds when eating meals high in sodium. The more sodium, the more water retention you will have. Remember this, especially after a night of takeout or dining out.
5. Be mindful of when you’re eating! Try not to have a full meal moments before bed. You want to give your body time to digest all foods properly.
Learning is powerful. The more knowledge we gain, the less anger we will have when stepping on the scale. If we approach it properly, it doesn’t have to ruin our journey. Keep these five factors in your mind for the near future!
Lisa Marotta, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Lisa Marotta is a certified Nutritionist and established owner of Lifestyle with Lisa. In 2017, Marotta decided to transform her lifestyle for the better, both physically and mentally, and it was the best decision she has ever made. She chose to create Lifestyle with Lisa, an all-inclusive and dynamic nutrition-coaching service, to help those who are facing the challenges she did just a few years ago. As a nutrition coach, she customizes her programs to meet all of her client's individual needs. From meal planning and fitness routines to maintaining a positive mindset when faced with life’s challenges, Lisa builds custom strategies to help her clients not only reach their goals and desires, but to maintain them. Often times, people may feel as though they do not have the right tools or motivation to make the changes necessary to live a happy and healthy lifestyle. Her goal is to help those see that their goals are achievable and that support can be found both internally within them self as well as externally with the right tools.