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• During weight loss, percent body fat does not appear to be reduced as quickly as expected
because total weight loss and total body fat are decreasing at the same time (for a more detailed
explanation, see next section).
•
Weight loss in the form of body fat and lean tissue (muscle) is common and is normal.
• To minimize the loss of lean tissue, include regular physical activity, especially strength training,
in your weight-loss plan.
Body Water/Hydration Levels
General health standards indicate that one should consume approximately 2L of water per day
from food and liquids to maintain a healthy level of hydration. Maintaining a good hydration level
will help improve your overall health and general feeling of well-being. If your hydration levels are
lower than average, you should increase your water intake accordingly.
Body water/hydration level – how is it measured?
The hydration level is measured by using Bioelectric Impedance Analysis (BIA). The same analysis
that is used to calculate your body fat is used to calculate your hydration level. Taking into conside-
ration a user’s age and gender, a calculation is made that determines the percentage of water.
Note:
It is not recommended to take the hydration measurements in certain situations, such as following
exercise, after drinking a glass of water, or directly prior to, during or shortly after menstrual cycles.
Hydration may not be at normal levels during these times.
Bone Mass — What Is It?
Bone is a living, growing tissue. During youth, your body makes new bone tissue faster than it
breaks down older bone. In young adulthood, bone mass is at its peak; after that, bone loss starts
to outpace bone growth, and bone mass decreases. But it is a long and very slow process that can
be slowed down even more through calcium-rich diets and weight-bearing exercise.
Important Information Concerning Weight Management
Your scale is a helpful tool for monitoring weight. While not the only measure of weight loss, scales
are the most popular method used to gauge weight-loss success. A scale measures the sum of
your total body weight, which includes bone, muscle, fat, and water. Body weight fluctuates during
the day, and from day to day, depending on a variety of factors.
• Salt and carbohydrate intake can affect the body’s water retention.
• A large meal adds weight and can cause water retention.
•
Dehydration from exercise, illness, or low fluid intake can result in weight loss.
• Muscle is also a factor. Heavy-duty resistance training can build muscle, which can affect
weight.
• The menstrual cycle can cause temporary weight gains and losses.
Here are 5 guidelines for effectively monitoring your weight – weigh yourself:
• Once a week, on the same day of the week
• At the same time of day
• In the same place
• Wearing the same clothes
• Using the same scale
