I look like I have been losing weight. Why can't I see a difference?

[Anonymous]

Everyone around me has been telling me I look like I have been losing weight. I have but I don't see it. They say I'm looking slimmer, yet I feel like I look like I'm gaining weight. Yes I am losing weight, but I've only lost about 10-15 pounds. I try not to weigh myself as much as I want to because I'm afraid that I have gained weight. I'm so afraid to gain any weight back, but I'm not (yet and hopefully never will). I'm hoping maybe as I get closer to my weight/fitness goals ill start to see a change. every time I look in the mirror I feel like I'm getting larger, but so far I've lost an inch off my waist. :) maybe I'm not seeing a change because I'm used to being over weight. Well I don't know, what do you think?..

[madmisskelly]

I think when you are used to seeing yourself overweight it can be hard to make a transition. If more than one person has been telling you that you are losing weight, then you more than likely are.

Try and be realistic about what you see in the mirror. Rather than sit and scrutinize your body and evaluate yourself you should try treating yourself as you would your friend. You don't sit and scritinize your friends' bodies so don't do it to yours. Be honest with yourself- do you REALLY think you are looking bigger or is there a part of you (even if it is a small part of you) that thinks you have gotten slimmer? Listen to that part.

[lexctasy]

Sometimes it's hard to believe that you're getting healthier. Your subconscience can be cruel- it can make you think that you are getting worse when really you're improving. Just be healthy, work out, eat the right foods- but never starve yourself. If you ever feel discouraged, look at old pictures of yourself and realize how different you are, even if it's not a very big change. Good for you for losing an inch! That's awesome. Also 10-15 pounds is quite good! Keep it up and just be confident :)

[MakeLoveNotWar]

Body dysmorphic disorder.

A lot of people go through this after a significant change in their body, whether it be weight loss or muscle gain.

[Anonymous]

are you eating healthy?

[Asker]

Yes. I'm drinking a lot more water, as opposed to juice or soda, which is what I used to drink regularly. And eating a lot more fruits and veggies.