Avoid Inaccurate Results by Weighing Yourself at This Time
https://www.cnet.com/health/fitness/avoid-inaccurate-results-by-weighing-yourself-at-this-time/Warmer weather is here. Are you already stressing over seeing a certain number on the scale for your hot girl summer? Ready to prioritize weight loss in a way that works for you? It's important to remember that the number on the scale is only part of the story. While it can offer helpful insight, it doesn't capture the full picture of your progress. Factors like muscle gain, body composition and even how your clothes fit can be more revealing than weight alone. Tracking body measurements alongside scale weight can give you a more complete view of how far you've come.
That said, if you're using a scale to monitor changes, timing is everything. Your weight naturally fluctuates throughout the day due to meals, hydration levels, workouts and other factors. To get the most accurate and consistent readings, it's essential to follow a few simple guidelines -- from when to step on the scale to how to position your body. Here's how to make your weigh-ins work for you during your weight loss journey.
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When is the best time to weigh yourself?
You'll get the most accurate reading from your scale if you weigh yourself first thing in the morning. Do it after using the restroom and before eating breakfast or chugging any water. According to experts, morning is the best time because you've given your body the chance to properly digest everything you ate and drank the previous day, leaving your stomach relatively empty.
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When is the worst time to weigh yourself?
There is no "worst" time to weigh yourself, but you may want to avoid weighing after activities that could throw off your weight. This might be something like eating a large meal or drinking a large amount of liquid, which can in turn cause you to "weigh more" temporarily. You may also want to avoid weighing yourself after exercise because you will weigh less due to the water lost through sweating, so time your weigh-in at a different time than your workout time for the day.
If you experience menstruation, you may want to avoid weighing yourself in the days leading up to your period. That is because your hormones can cause weight fluctuations that would affect the number on the scale. You should also note that it is normal for your weight to fluctuate throughout the day, and from day to day. If you are concerned about sudden changes in your weight, consult your doctor as soon as possible.
More tips on getting an accurate reading
Besides weighing yourself at an ideal time of day, there are more ways to ensure you regularly get an accurate reading from your scale, which is especially important when tracking weight loss or gain.
Read more: Your Weight Isn't Everything: 6 Health Metrics That Are More Important
When to break up with your scale
Like any unhealthy relationship, you can walk away from weighing yourself if you think it's negatively impacting your life. Don't hesitate to ditch your scale if you're experiencing:
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