Five Weight Loss Mistakes You Don’t Even Know You’re Making - #5 Is A Total Game-Changer

If you’ve been eating healthy, hitting the gym, and still not seeing results on the scale, you’re not alone. According to popular nutritionist Leema Mahajan, your weight loss struggles could be due to some everyday habits you’re not even noticing.

Leema, who has over 405K followers on Instagram, shared a post that’s now going viral. In it, she points out five non-diet reasons your fat loss might be stuck. Based in Haryana, she specialises in hormone health and fat loss, and her advice is striking a chord with many.

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A post shared by Leema Mahajan | Nutritionist & Weight loss specialist (@leemamahajan)

Five Mistakes That Can Hinder Your Weight Loss Plan

1. Eating Too Fast Affects Weight Loss

One major mistake people make is rushing through meals. Leema explains, “If you finish your meal in 10, your body doesn’t get time to say ‘stop’.” Your brain needs around 20 minutes to realise you're full. Eating slowly, chewing 30 times per bite, and pausing during meals helps prevent overeating and supports fat loss.

2. Not Drinking Water Before Meals

Leema also warns that we often confuse thirst with hunger. Drinking a glass of room-temperature water 20–30 minutes before meals can help with digestion and slightly boost calorie burn. Plus, it helps control portions more naturally.

3. Sleep Deprivation Can Stall Weight Loss

Getting less than 6 hours of sleep can mess with your hunger hormones. “It increases cravings and reduces your willpower,” Leema says. To support your metabolism and stay on track with your goals, make sure you’re getting at least 7–8 hours of proper rest every night.

4. Low Movement Throughout The Day

Even if you work out daily, staying inactive the rest of the time hurts your weight loss. Leema explains the concept of NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis), which is the energy you burn while doing everyday activities like walking or cleaning. Simple actions like taking stairs or stretching often can make a real difference.

5. Chronic Stress - The Silent Weight Loss Killer

The final point (and perhaps the most important) is stress. She says, “It also triggers cravings, messes with sleep, and slows your digestion and metabolism." Elevated cortisol levels due to chronic stress can make your body store more fat, especially around the belly. A few minutes of deep breathing, journaling, or mindful walking every day can help manage it better.

Leema reminds that weight loss isn’t just about food and workouts. Your lifestyle, mindset, and hormones all play a key role. Support your body fully and it’ll work with you, not against you.

So, which of these habits is holding you back from your goals?