More than just the number on the scale will change when you lose weight.
When it comes to losing weight, many people place a lot of emphasis on the scale. Watching the numbers go down can be very rewarding and can be a sure sign of success. But your weight – the measure of the earth's gravitational force on your body at a moment in time – isn't the only thing that measures your success as you navigate the road to a healthier you.
Whether you need a reminder of how far you've come or want more reasons to be grateful for the changes you are making, look out for these non-scale victories (NSVs) of losing weight. They'll provide you with a sense of accomplishment and can give you the motivation to keep moving forward on your health journey.
7 Things to Celebrate When You Lose Weight
- You'll see visible changes in your body. Even if the scale isn't moving as fast as you'd like, you may notice your clothes fit better because you're losing inches. If you're working out, your body becomes more toned and your measurements may change more dramatically than your weight.
- You'll have more energy. Carrying less weight around will likely give you a boost of energy. This can make it easier for you to be more physically active and may also enhance many aspects of your daily life.
- You'll be in less pain. The less weight your body needs to support, the fewer aches and pains you may have. From your knees to your hips, losing weight takes a lot of stress off your joints.
- You'll be more mobile. Things that used to be hard to do become easier as you lose weight. From walking and climbing stairs to bending down to tie your shoes or picking up packages, you'll find it easier to move. You may also have more stamina and a bit more pep in your step.
- You'll "fit" better. You can now slip into a booth at a restaurant more comfortably. It may be easier to fit behind the steering wheel of your car. Maybe you no longer need a seat belt extender on a plane. Things that used to be difficult or embarrassing don't feel that way any more.
- You may need less medication. As you lose weight, chronic conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes will likely improve. As they do, you may be able to reduce or eliminate some medications you take (but don't change any meds without consulting a doctor).
- You'll feel empowered. There are many reasons to feel good about yourself when you lose weight. You look and feel better, but that's only a part of it. It's a good feeling to take control of your health and make yourself a commitment. Losing weight is hard and you're doing the work to make it happen. Congrats and keep it going!
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Date Last Reviewed: August 15, 2023
Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor
Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD
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