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7 common mistakes that can derail your weight loss journey

TOI Lifestyle Desk
| ETimes.in | Last updated on - Aug 11, 2025, 08:17 IST
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1/8

Don’t let common blunders stall your slim-down journey

Ever wondered why you are not able to lose weight even if you are trying so hard? Maybe there’s a common mistake pattern which you are continuously following. Remember, successful weight loss is more than a diet plan or gym membership. It’s a continuous journey riddled with challenges and learning opportunities. So, you have to be very careful and avoid the common mistakes that secretly sabotage your weight loss journey. Here are the seven commonly done mistakes-

2/8

Setting unrealistic goals

When you see a movie star or your friends in slim-trim attire, you might decide to lose weight as soon as you can. But for that, you needn’t set unrealistic goals. Unrealistic expectations set you up for disappointment and may lead you to give up altogether. Instead, what you can do is, you focus on small steps like losing 1-2 kg per week or simply make healthier choices every day.

3/8

Skipping the three-time meal

Most of the people who are new to the weight loss process, they think if they don’t eat, they can lose weight. However, that’s not the truth, this may cause issues of obesity and can throw your metabolism off track. Missing or skipping melas often leads to energy slumps, irritability and eventually makes you eat a lot at the wrong time of the day. Instead, prioritize regular, balanced meals with proper protein content in it, whole grains and fresh produce.

4/8

Over-reliance on low-fat or ‘diet’ foods

The intake of diet foods always doesn’t mean they are good. Many low- fat versions of diet foods are packed with added sugars and artificial flavors and fragrances. If you intake all those, it might cause an issue. Opt for the green leafy veggies rather than relying on such food items. In the market there are sugar- free snacks which can make you overeat, letting you rely on the wrong notion of ‘guilt-free’ fooding.

5/8

Neglecting strength training

Going to a gym might help you burn calories, but without strength training you might miss out on building mass. More muscles mean you burn more calories even at rest. Mix strength workouts like squats, push-ups, and lifting weights into your weight loss routine at least twice a week for better results in your weight loss plan.

6/8

Ignoring portion size

Intake of the right kind of food in the correct amount is essential. The sad part is if you are on a weight loss plan, don’t intake food more than a certain amount. Just because it is green vegetables, doesn’t mean you can gobble up the entire greens. Also, trying a certain kind of snack isn’t a crime, but portioning your food is the mandatory thing in your weight loss journey. Try eating on plates, so that you know the quantity, instead of eating from the bag or someone else's plates.

7/8

Underestimating the power of proper sleep

Continuous cardio or gym won’t help out. A balanced meal with a balanced sleep keeps you healthy and stress free. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night, and develop stress-busting habits like mindful breathing, meditation or even a walk in the park can help you out to be a better version of yourself.

8/8

Obsessing over the scale

Don’t build up the habit of weighing yourself everyday or measuring your waist size each and every moment. This will build up intense pressure. Measure your weight when decided, like once in a week or two. Follow the schedule and stick to the nuances. An obsession with the number can scale and overshadow the bigger picture. So, celebrate non-scale victories, such as feeling stronger, having more energy or sleeping better.

Remember, weight loss is a long process which asks for consistency, balance and understanding. No crash diet or magic pills can help you lose weight. Try sidestepping the common mistakes and begin your journey.

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Copyright © Jun 8, 2026, 03.42PM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service