HEALTH: When you hit the wall with your diet, there are ways to crank up the calorie-burning.


When the needle on the scale refuses to drop another bar, it can be frustrating. Jump-starting weight loss calls for understanding what causes the halt. A debated weight-loss theory holds that the body has a "set point" or comfortable level of fatness, below which the body will resist fat-loss efforts.

Weight loss also slows because

"the less you weigh, the fewer calories it takes to move your body around,"

said Roberta Jupp, a South Carolina registered dietitian and diabetes educator. But you can crank up the calorie-burning.


Change your ways.


Changing your routine is the main way to get off a weight-loss plateau, said Cathy Muffler, a YMCA director and certified fitness trainer. Vary the speed or incline on the treadmill, or try the bike or elliptical machine. Change what, how much and when you eat.


Analyze your behavior.


Losing weight is not just about diet and exercise, but about behavior.
You might be taking in more calories than you realize. A food diary can reveal where you need to make adjustments.

Follow up:

Consult a professional.


A registered dietitian or nutritionist can help you figure out the next move when you're stuck.


Do weight training.


Activities that stress the muscles and bones make them work harder and strengthen. Muscle tissue is the body's main calorie-burner.


Eat more often.


Eat four to five small meals a day instead of three large meals to boost metabolism and regulate blood insulin levels.


Don't starve yourself.


Source: PE.com