by Michelle Homan

Created on: May 17, 2009   Last Updated: May 21, 2010

Mistakes in weight loss, as in life, are inevitable. Society, work, family, and emotions all play a part in complicating weight loss. Being aware of common pitfalls is the first step to smoothly navigating the road to your weight loss goals.

1. Unrealistic Expectations

It's great to aim high, but shows like 'Biggest Loser' have distorted society's perception of realistic weight loss. Sure, watching in awe as contestants shed 20 pounds per week is motivational, but most of us do not live on a self-contained, weight loss campus.

Reassure yourself that about 2 pounds per week is the recommended goal for healthy weight loss. Not much in terms of instant gratification, but setting small, attainable goals is healthy for your body and mind.

2. Extreme Restriction

Cutting back on some long time favorites is expected when trying to lose weight. But shunning all the foods that bring joy to your life is a recipe for diet disaster.

If you are attempting a lifestyle change, your diet needs to be something that will work in the long term. Enjoy an appropriate portion of your favorite food on the weekend as a reward for a great week. Knowing you are allowed to enjoy food will give you the strength you need to keep up the good work and avoid diet resentment.

3. Not Keeping a Food Diary

Writing down your daily intake holds you accountable and gives you an honest record of your progress. Without any record of your actions, there is no reliable way to track your progress or look for holes in your plan.

Try keeping a food diary of everything you eat and drink throughout the day. Sometimes, if you are on a very stringent plan, you may be able to record your daily diet in advance.

4. Everyday Weigh-Ins

Weighing every day is a mentally unhealthy way to go. Weight can fluctuate 1-3 pounds over the course of a day due to food and water weight. Plus, waiting daily for those numbers to budge can lead to a dangerous extreme in either direction.

Weigh only once per week at a consistent time. You will allow yourself to see the real progress you have been working so hard for.

5. Starvation

Will only put your body into starvation mode! Your body will compensate by hoarding fat in anticipation that it will not be receiving food anytime soon.

Fuel your metabolism with a high energy snack every few hours to keep your body burning like a well oiled machine.

6. Giving Up

Don't throw in the towel because of one lapse in judgment. Weight loss is an ongoing process, not a cut and dry diet.

Rest assured

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