by Abby Way

Created on: May 18, 2009   Last Updated: May 22, 2010

There are a lot of us watching our weight, exercising, and dieting, but still not getting any results. If you find yourself nodding at that sentence, you might be making one of these ten common weight loss mistakes and sabotaging your own efforts.

1. Weighing every day
This is one of the biggest mistakes we make when trying to lose weight! Weight loss won't be consistent from day to day, or even weekly, and body weight will fluctuate within a few pounds each day. It's best to weigh yourself monthly.

2. Skipping meals
This common mistake just tricks your metabolism into burning muscle instead of fat. Once you stop dieting, you'll gain weight again, resulting in an infamous "yo-yo" cycle of weight loss. People who skip breakfast are four times as likely to be overweight!

3. Comparing yourself
Everyone is different, and we all lose weight differently. Resist the temptation to compare yourself to others. You might be doing everything right and not see any results until several days after a friend or celebrity did.

4. Eating too quickly
Most of us are on the go constantly and inhale our meals. Take the time to slow down, chew, and enjoy your food, and your body will be better able to tell you when it is full, meaning you don't eat as much and aren't left hungry.

5. Sleep deprivation
Getting a full eight hours of sleep has never been more important. Try to establish a routine of bedtimes and wake-up times, and you'll find the weight coming off and staying off.

6. Processed foods
Fries are one of the top diet-killers. Potatoes in particular raise blood sugar quickly, and white bread, potato chips, and breakfast bars have a similar effect. Try whole-grain foods and bread instead.

7. Not enough water
Some people notice more weight coming off if they drink less water, but this is just "water weight" and not fat. You'll dehydrate yourself, especially if you're exercising without drinking plenty of water.

8. Eating meals that aren't home-cooked
We're all busy, and one side effect of this trend towards fast food (which is grease-, salt-, and sugar-laden food) is weight gain. Pick up a cookbook and set aside more time each day to cook proper meals. An added bonus: home-cooked meals really do taste better.

9. Following fads
When it comes to weight loss, many magical "meal replacements", diet pills, and other would-be solutions are out there. They're usually ineffective at best; go for a balanced variety of foods in your meals instead.

10. Giving up
If you "relapse" into non-healthy ways, it's tempting to give up dieting once and for all. Instead, remember that everyone has bad days when dieting. Forget about it and keep up your efforts, and you'll see results.

Setting aside a little more time in the kitchen and bed, slowing down and enjoying three square meals, and watching what you eat as well as how much will all help you keep that weight off.

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