Common Weight Loss Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making

Weight loss can be tricky, and sometimes the things that feel like they're helping might actually be holding you back. Here are five common mistakes people make on their weight loss journey—mistakes you might not even know you’re making!

1. Not Having Backup Options

Life happens. Whether it’s a busy day at work, an unexpected event, or just plain exhaustion, we’ve all been there. If you don’t have quick, easy, and healthy meal options on hand, you’re more likely to turn to less nutritious, but more convenient options like UberEats or fast food.

Pro Tip: Keep some healthy convenient meals and snacks on hand for when life happens. My favourites are salad kits & frozen veg, pre-made meals, pre-marinated or pre-cooked protein options, microwave rice or healthy snacks like nuts, yogurt, or protein muesli bars.

2. Not Eating Properly Around Training

Exercise is great for your body, but if you’re not eating enough before or after your workouts, you might be sabotaging your progress. Not fuelling your body properly can lead to increased hunger later in the day, which may cause you to overeat.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have time for a balanced meal, ensure you are eating a pre- or post-workout snack. This not only supports your energy and recovery, but can maintain your appetite and energy later in the day.

3. Not Adjusting Your Intake According to Your Period

Did you know that your energy needs and cravings can shift throughout your menstrual cycle? Ignoring these changes can lead to intense cravings and overeating later in your cycle.

Pro Tip: Track the symptoms you experience around your cycle. Once you understand the patterns you experience, try to adjust your nutrition and exercise accordingly. 

4. Not Prioritising Sleep

We all know sleep is important for overall health, but did you know it plays a key role in hunger regulation? Poor sleep can increase hunger hormones, making it harder to feel satisfied after meals, and can lead to overeating.

Pro Tip: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. If you’re not getting enough rest, your body may crave high-calorie foods as a quick energy fix.

5. Skipping Meals or Snacks

You might think skipping meals or snacks is a good way to "save calories" throughout the day, but it often backfires. Skipping meals can lead to increased hunger later on, which increases the likelihood of overeating in the evening or during the next meal.

Pro Tip: Eat balanced meals and snacks regularly to keep your energy levels steady. This helps maintain satiety and avoids the dreaded 3 p.m. crash. 

Final Thoughts

When it comes to weight loss, small changes in your routine can make a big difference. The key is balance—having backup options, fuelling your body properly around workouts, adjusting for your cycle, getting enough sleep, and eating regularly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be on a better path to long-term, sustainable success.