What Is Weight Fluctuation?
Weight changes are the variation in the weight of an individual in a scale spanning from days to weeks. Because that is normal, these movements could be due to some additional reasons which are in some cases temporary, these may include water retention, the intake of certain foods or lack of adequate sleep.
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Understanding Why Men Lose Weight Quicker Than Women
Why Does Weight Fluctuate?
There are several reasons why your weight will go up and down, and almost all of them are harmless:
Daily Weight Changes
Ever noticed how your weight is generally lower in the morning? That is so because your system has some time to rid itself of fluids, and therefore you would have taken something you know would keep you dehydrated. Throughout the day, even though you are engaged in activities such as eating, drinking and exercising, your weight is unlikely to remain stable.
Weekly Weight Fluctuations
Over the course of a week, your weight may also shift depending on wider trends such as your diet, exercise levels, or even your menstrual cycle (if applicable). It’s common to track anywhere between a net loss of 1-5 pounds in one week.
When Is Weight Fluctuation Normal?
So, what is normal fluctuation and when is it of cause for concern? All depends on consistency and context.
We look at the factors that cause normal variations in this segment in the next topics:
- Diet: Salty or carbohydrate laden foods lead to water retaining in the body.
- Hydration Levels: May be either extremely dehydrated or over hydrated.
- Hormones: Hormonal or menstrual cycles can bring about the shift;
- Lifestyle Changes: Can be due to heavy workout or a big event, among others;
Indications of Abnormal Weight Changes
If your weight goes up and down drastically for no apparent reason, or if you feel weak or your body swells, it may be a good time to see a doctor. Sometimes, thyroid issues or heart disorders might lead to seemingly inexplicable variations in weight.
How to Monitor Weight Fluctuation Precisely?
Best Time to Weigh Yourself
The best time it should be done is early morning after a bathroom use but before you actually eat or take any form of drink. This gives you the most consistent baseline.
Tools to Track
Be sure to invest in good digital scales for accuracy, as well as apps like MyFitnessPal or Fitbit to track trends over time. Keep in mind, it is the overall picture and not individual readings.
Tips to Manage Normal Weight Fluctuation
Choosing better options and practical steps to deal with fluctuating weight gain, here is what you ought to know.
Sip enough water and ensure you are taking foods with less processed foods, more fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. Again, it is important to minimize the intake of salt and too much sweets causing bloated stomach.
