Plateau - how long will it last?

[Anonymous]

I started trying to lose weight about six weeks ago with a 20lb goal. The first ten pounds came off pretty easily with a 1500 calorie / day, four long walks / hikes per week and 7-min workout daily, which is already challenging given kids and work. But the last ten days - nothing. Up pound, back, up a few ounces, back, but no weight loss. Maybe gaining muscle..? Curious how long you'd expect a weight loss plateau to last, before cutting more calories or adding more exercise.

[Anonymous]

Everyone's plateau mark varies. I would modify the workouts before lowering your caloric intake. Instead of walking, maybe incorporate a jog or light run. But back to the food intake: what foods are your 1500 calories coming from?

[Anonymous]

Thanks! Whole foods - fruit, yogurt and nuts for breakfast (occasionally eggs), salad and protein for lunch, dinner is a small potion of what my family is having - meat, starch, veggies or salad. Snacks are fruit or nuts. Tracking using Tap and Track app. Diet feels sustainable...

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Thanks! Whole foods - fruit, yogurt and nuts for breakfast (occasionally eggs), salad and protein for lunch, dinner is a small potion of what my family is having - meat, starch, veggies or salad. Snacks are fruit or nuts. Tracking using Tap and Track app. Diet feels sustainable...

I'd cut down on the carbs, but bulk up on the protein - eggs and chicken. I wouldn't snack; stick to a timed eating schedule. Eat to the point where you still feel hungry. But I think your best bet is to modify your workout routine.

[Anonymous]

on your cardio, try to incorporate HIIT. Also, lifting weights is a great way to lose pounds as your body continues to burn calories even after you've lifted. you may actually weight initially due to increased muscle mass but you'll shrink your waist line, belly, butt, etc. as well.