By Dr. Shruthi Thennati MBBS, MD Medicine | PgDip Endocrinology (UK) | DipIBLM General Physician | Metabolic Physician | Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner Kayakalpa Clinic, Vadodara When people start a weight-loss journey, the first thing they often think about is cutting calories . But healthy weight loss isn’t simply about eating less. What you eat matters too. Protein is an important part of a balanced eating pattern because it provides essential amino acids and supports the body’s tissues, including muscle. During weight loss, maintaining muscle and improving overall diet quality are important goals — not simply watching the number on the scale. A healthy weight-management plan generally combines a sustainable eating pattern with physical activity and, when appropriate, medical support. Why Is Protein Important for Weight Management? Protein can help make meals more satisfying and provides the building blocks needed for maintaining and repairing body tissue...
You’ve started eating better. You’re exercising regularly. The first few weeks go well — and then suddenly, the weighing scale stops moving. This is called a weight-loss plateau , and it is extremely common. A plateau doesn’t necessarily mean that your diet has “stopped working” or that you’ve failed. As your body weight changes, your energy requirements and appetite can change too. The important question is: what should you do next? What Is a Weight-Loss Plateau? A weight-loss plateau occurs when your weight remains relatively stable for a period of time despite continuing your weight-management efforts. Weight loss is rarely a straight downward line. Your weight can fluctuate because of: Water retention Hormonal changes Menstrual cycle Changes in bowel movements Sodium intake Exercise Changes in food intake So a few days without weight loss doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve reached a plateau. A genuine plateau is better assessed by looking at trends over time , rather than one or...