Why is it harder to lose a smaller amount of weight?

[Torihoo]

I'm barely a teen and am looking to lose my "carry on luggage" but it seems impossible to drop the few pounds. I can't work wonders like the contestants on the biggest loser and I'm struggling to maintain, let alone lose, my spare tire(s)

[Siz2741]

Don't compare yourself to someone from the biggest loser, they get to spend all day for several months thinking and focusing on how best to loose wieght and have professional help along with endless resources.

It will take time but find small satisifation.  You probably care finding you are getting stronger and that some activities are so much easier to do. If you are not "droping the pounds" try mesuring your waist and such (some people loose inches before they see it on the scale). Your face will thin out first.

Oh and hydrate and sleep. Nothing helps more than getting a good nights sleep consistnantly and getting enough water.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

If you are aiming at losing weight, it is important to calculate your current BMI and the target BMI. The target BMI should be in a healthy range. Aside indulging in moderate amounts of physical exercise it is also essential to maintain a healthy diet plan. It is important to know that a diet plan is not about cutting down calories; it’s about ‘healthy’ eating. With cutting on diet one may initially lose weight but this may remain static or increase later. When one cuts down on calories, the body sends a signal to the brain which in turn turns on the ‘stress hormones’ and the body switches into the ‘starvation mode’ and paradoxically one may notice no change in weight or an increased weight. One would need adequate amount of calories to support the basic metabolic functions and if you work out vigorously, your required calorie intake rises. A healthy diet should consist of adequate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fat and plenty of fruits and vegetables to supply vitamins and minerals. Start with a healthy breakfast, moderate lunch and light dinner. It is also advised to rotate between various exercise schedules. You may rotate between a gym, swimming, yoga, aerobics, jogging, cycling etc. Also keep a track of calorie intake and your work out. With gradual consistent efforts, you should be able to lose weight as desired in a healthy way.
Hope this helps.

Take care!

[mzrichee]

hi. i'm no health/exercise expert, but from personal experiences, a healthy diet and exercise regimen is always a good start to weight-loss and a healthier lifestyle. remember, there are no shortcuts. you must make a lifestyle change if you want to keep and maintain a figure you consider is desirable. and calories matters. you want to make sure you eat enough to keep your body going, but also burn enough to give that deficit for weight loss. i say you should watch what you eat and add in some days of physical activities. cardio workouts such as walking/jogging is always a good start and over a long period of time will definitely help w/ the belly fat. i know personally that by consistently running 3-5 times a week has helped with my core/stomach area. adding in strength workouts can also help speed up the weight loss as you're building more muscles. and like everyone says, muscles burn more calories than fat! so stay positive, get going on that healthy diet (fruits, veggies, whole grains, lean proteins, all the good healthy foods), and get in some exercises. in no time, i'm sure you'll see the results you've been looking for. good luck! :)