Why You Should Stop Weighing Yourself Daily, According to a Nutrition Expert

"One of the biggest mistakes people make during a diet — or even in general — is weighing themselves every single day," says Israeli nutritionist Dr. Maya Rosman. According to her, daily weigh-ins are not only meaningless, but they offer no real advantage.

 Many people on a weight loss journey make it a habit to step on the scale every morning — or even twice a day. Dr Rosman urges people to break this habit. “I know it’s become routine for many to step on the scale first thing, even before brushing your teeth, but it really doesn’t have any true value,” she explains.

Some argue that daily weigh-ins keep them accountable. “They say if they see the number go up, they’re more careful that day,” Rosman notes. “But can your weight really change in a meaningful way from one day to the next? Absolutely not.”

The human body is made up of about 70% water, and fluid fluctuations are the main reason for daily weight changes. “Women often notice water retention before their period, and others might observe that weighing yourself before a bowel movement can show half a kilo to a full kilo more than weighing yourself afterward.”

“If you had a big salad late at night, don’t step on the scale the next morning” she says. “You might see an extra kilo on the scale, not because you gained fat, but because the food hasn’t fully digested yet. Heatwaves can cause bloating that affects your weight, and constipation or irregular digestion can also cause dramatic fluctuations.”

“Weigh yourself no more than once a week. That’s more than enough."