9 Weight Loss Mistakes You Could Be Making

Written by
Joan Hodges 
So you've worked your butt off and despite your best attempts, those stubborn pounds just won't come off.

Could it be that you're unknowingly committing one or several of these common mistakes while on your weight loss journey? The good news is you can easily kick these harmful habits right now.
Calorie Counting
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Calories in and calories out isn't the whole story. Paying attention to your consumption of protein, carbs, fiber and other nutrients can help determine your success in weight loss more than just counting calories.

If you're using a food tracker, be sure to invest in one that isn't one-dimensional.
Eating While Distracted
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Whether it's a rushed lunch at your desk or a mindless dinner on the couch watching Netflix, what may seem like a harmless routine is actually tricking your mind into craving more food.

Because you're distracted, you'll feel as though you ate less than you probably did, which could cause more high-calorie snacking later. Try sitting down at the table or listening to calming music during meals for more mindful eating.
Skipping Meals
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Even though it's a big no-no, it's common for dieters to skip meals, especially breakfast. When you skip meals, your blood sugar drops, your mental function decreases and studies show you're more likely to compensate with junk food.

Be sure to eat when you're hungry, and never ignore your body's signals.
Drinking Calories
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It's easy to forget about the hidden calories in that sugary soda (even diet soda) or the occasional glass of champagne. But those calories definitely count! Water truly is the best beverage for your body, but if you want to spice it up, add in some nutritious citrus fruits.
Ignoring Sleep
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If the pounds just aren't budging, your sleep patterns could be a factor. Loss of sleep can drastically slow metabolism and contribute to unnecessary hunger.

Create a relaxing environment in your bedroom and keep a sleep schedule for better rest. Try rating your sleep quality for a week to pin point the issues keeping you from a good night's sleep.
Shopping on an Empty Stomach
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It's dangerous territory to step foot in the grocery store on an empty stomach. And without a planned list to help guide your healthy choices, you're more apt to make unhealthy ones.

Avoid the impulse buys by having a small, filling pre-shopping snack and write down your healthy grocery list ahead of time.
Emotional Eating
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Are you truly hungry or is there something else going on that's "eating away" at you? Tune into the signals your body is sending before picking up the fork. It could save you a significant amount of unnecessary calories.
Overeating Healthy Foods
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It's super easy to overindulge in almonds, fruit or cheeses. Take the guesswork out of portion control by pre-measuring these yummy snacks. Just because it's healthy, doesn't mean you can lose weight eating unlimited amounts.
Being Too Strict
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Nobody is perfect, and if you ignore cravings outright, you may just end up binging. Give yourself some wiggle room and indulge occasionally—it's good for you, we promise!
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About the Author

Joan Hodges ACTIVE.com Contributor
Joan Hodges writes nutrition articles for ACTIVE.com. As a health and wellness blogger based in Dallas, Texas, she has been inspired by her own journey of full mental and physical recovery. Joan is a devout yogi, dog lover and self-love advocate. You can read about her health journey here.