Why Does My Weight Fluctuate So Much?

Weight fluctuations are expected and a normal part of a functioning body.

The weight on the scale reflects various things such as water and beverage intake, fluid retention, bloating, hormonal changes, undigested food in your stomach, medications, and waste that hasn't been eliminated from your intestines. 

Some people’s weight may vary by a couple of pounds from the start of the day until the end, whereas others can vary by larger amounts. 

Keep reading to learn about weight fluctuations, common causes, tips for managing fluctuations, and how a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) can help you develop an eating plan that best fits your needs.

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Why Does My Weight Fluctuate?

Weight fluctuations are normal as your body works to maintain homeostasis (or overall balance) throughout the day.

For example, the body maintains a healthy body temperature, fluid status, pH, and blood pressure, including a weight range.

This article discusses smaller weight fluctuations (less than a 5% change yearly).

Fluctuating 4 to 5 pounds is about a 2% weight change for a 185-pound person. 

Common Causes of Weight Fluctuations 

The following are common causes of weight fluctuations:

Water Retention or Dehydration  

Water retention can occur after eating salty food.

The body compensates by increasing thirst and fluid intake.

After eating salty food, studies show people increase fluid intake for a few days with no increased urine output, leading to body weight increases until the body balances back out again. 

Even mild dehydration leads to fluid loss and can result in temporary weight loss. 

Changes in Muscle Mass  

If you lose weight by changing your diet alone, you can expect to lose muscle mass. 

Research shows that adequate protein and physical activity like weight lifting or resistance exercise can improve muscle strength and muscle mass during weight loss. 

Resistance training can lead to stronger muscles. Use tools other than a scale to measure health and physical strength. 

Hormonal Imbalances and Changes

Women have fluctuating hormones related to their menstrual cycles and then another shift related to menopause.

The levels of various hormones vary depending on the phase of the menstrual cycle. 

Some research indicates that certain cycle-related hormones can increase eating, and others decrease appetite.

Additionally, menopause causes hormone changes that reduce muscle and increase fat mass.

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Medications 

Medications can cause you to retain water, increase appetite, and slow digestion and metabolism. 

Medications commonly associated with weight gain are anti-psychotic drugs, anti-depressant drugs, anti-epileptic drugs, beta-blockers, anti-hyperglycemic, and glucocorticoids.

Digestive Issues

Altered rates of digestion (faster or slower) can lead to weight fluctuations.

In a healthy individual, full digestion takes about 24 to 36 hours.

Some people need up to five days to digest and eliminate their food. 

Stress and Emotional Eating

Stress can lead to emotional eating.

Eating more food and drinks in 24 hours can lead to weight gain, although only a small percentage of that change is actual weight gain.

This type of weight gain is related to water weight and unprocessed food waiting to be fully digested. 

Inconsistent Eating Patterns 

Following a consistent eating pattern will help you maintain a stable weight.

Every person eats differently and may find a particular meal pattern that works well for their life. 

Remember that if you skip meals some days and consume significantly more the next, your weight will fluctuate accordingly. 

Underlying Health Conditions

Sometimes, health conditions can cause weight fluctuations.

‍Gastrointestinal (GI) conditions can cause weight loss; common conditions include celiac disease, food-borne illness, Crohn’s disease, and Whipple’s disease. 

Seek out medical care for unexplained weight changes and unresolved GI issues. 

Tips for Managing and Stabilizing Weight Fluctuations

Keep a Food and Symptom Diary  

If you notice large weight fluctuations and cannot pinpoint the source, keep a food and symptom diary.

You can track it on paper or with a device in the notes or calendar section. 

Noting all the foods and drinks you consume when your weight changes can help you monitor trends and possible triggers. 

Stay Hydrated 

Adequate hydration can prevent dehydration, and proper fluids help your digestive system to work correctly.

Inadequate fluid can contribute to constipation.

Remedying as many variables as possible can help you understand how your weight usually fluctuates.

Incorporate Strength Training into Your Workout Routine

Strength training (or resistance exercise) increases muscle or lean mass and is highly associated with optimal metabolic health.

Good metabolic health prevents heart disease and type 2 diabetes and improves physical function. 

Address Underlying Stress or Emotional Issues 

If you notice shifts in your weight, assess if underlying stress or emotional issues are contributing.

Some people respond to stress and emotions by undereating or overeating. 

Recognizing your coping mechanism may help you identify the root issue behind large weight fluctuations, and you can work on healthier stress management solutions.

Working with a dietitian can help you find solutions that work for you. 

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Follow a Consistent Meal and Sleep Schedule 

You can achieve consistency in your daily life by maintaining a regular sleep and meal schedule, which will help your body to respond more predictably. 

Researchers find that people eating two to six times per day have reduced inflammation, improved circadian rhythms, better cell turnover, manage stress better, and improved gut bacteria.

Circadian rhythms help regulate systems in the body, including appetite, energy, and sleep. 

A registered dietitian can help you find an eating pattern for your lifestyle and health conditions. 

Takeaway

Weight fluctuations are a normal part of life.

Recent food and beverage intake, hormonal changes, medications, digestive issues, and inconsistent eating patterns are a few factors that impact weight fluctuations.

Understanding common causes behind weight fluctuations can help identify larger weight shifts and address those issues as they arise.

Try some of the tips from this article for managing weight fluctuations.

Managing Your Weight with an RD

A registered dietitian nutritionist can help you understand how your body responds to food, beverages, food intolerances or allergies, physical activity, stress, and sleep. 

They can tailor a realistic eating plan to meet your individualized needs and health goals.

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