5 Reasons to Consider Putting Away the Scale

In a world where numbers often dictate how we feel about ourselves, the scale can become more than just a tool for tracking weight, it can become a source of stress, frustration, and even self-doubt. Putting the scale away might be one of the best decisions you can make. In this post, we’ll explore five powerful reasons why stepping off the scale could lead to a more balanced and positive approach to your health and self-care.

1. The scale isn’t very accurate.

Our weight can be complicated to fully understand due to several uncontrollable factors, including water/hydration status. Our body is 50-75% water, and the percent can go up or down based on the temperature outside (perspiration), sodium intake, our hormones, and our activity levels. The time of day and bowel movements (regularity) can also have an effect on the scale!

2. The scale can trigger disordered eating behaviors.

Subconsciously, you might be letting the scale dictate what you choose to eat daily. It can be difficult to look at the scale and not feel one way or another. When you don’t see the number you “want” to see, it can cause feelings of shame and sadness, which can lead to food restriction or binging.

3. Weight does NOT = health.

While weight can provide some insight into a person’s health, it doesn’t give the full picture. Health is influenced by many factors beyond just weight, such as muscle mass, genetics, diet, physical activity, sleep, age, hormones, cultural and socioeconomic factors, and mental well-being. It’s important to focus more on overall lifestyle and health markers, like blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and how you feel day-to-day, rather than just the number on the scale.

4. The scale encourages external validation over internal awareness.

Relying on the scale for validation can prevent you from tuning into your body’s signals. You might miss out on your body’s cues for important non-weight centered success like feeling more energized, sleeping better, or feeling stronger in your workouts, which are all indicators of progress that go far beyond the number on the scale.

5. The scale gets in the way of intuitive eating

Weighing yourself too often can interfere with intuitive eating because it can shift your focus away from how your body feels and what it truly needs. Intuitive eating is about listening to your body’s hunger and fullness cues, trusting your instincts, and making food choices based on what feels good and nourishing. When you focus too much on the number on the scale, it can create unnecessary stress or lead to making decisions based on a number rather than how your body feels in the moment.

*Remember to reach out for support from a registered dietitian. By working with a dietitian, you don’t have to face the scale alone. They can help you shift your mindset, set healthier goals, and cultivate a more balanced, fulfilling relationship with your body and food.