When you lose weight, it’s possible to lose the wrong kind of weight.
If we send the appropriate signals to our body, we can instruct our body to pare down our muscle mass in order to result in weight loss.
It might look great on the scales, but the chances of maintaining this kind of weight loss for the long term are pretty slim.
It’s also possible to send appropriate signals to our body to promote weight from body fat, while maintaining our muscle mass. This approach is superior for many, many reasons!
But, how do you know if the weight you’re losing is fat?
Well, firstly, I think that choosing the right approach tells the tale ahead of time – but, if you’re looking for something more tangible, I think there are two key signs:
Strength
If your strength is increasing or maintaining, there’s a good chance that the weight loss you’re seeing is from fat. You’re unlikely to have lost muscle if you’re maintaining or increasing your strength.
Size
If you’re losing inches as well as weight on the scale, you’re likely losing body. fat. But, if you’re a few kilos down and there’s very little change in your waist measurement, then it’s more likely the weight loss you’re seeing is muscle.
Try to remember how important muscle is for your overall health and that simply seeing a loss on the scales does not necessarily equate to improved health or being “less fat”.