Although obesity in the country in a major health concern, it is not for a lack of trying on the part of Americans to lose weight.  Every year, Americans spend tens of billions of dollars on weight-loss products in their pursuit of weight loss goals.  Initial weight loss can be challenging, but not nearly as hard as losing weight and keeping that weight off. There are many pitfalls that can cause weight to pile on back even after making great strides in the right direction. Some pit falls are obvious, while others are not as evident. The following are some common pitfalls of weight loss that you may be missing:

What you are drinking:

When people watch what they eat, they often forget to watch what they drink. Often, a soda, shake or juice can have more sugar and calories than an entire extra meal.  Sugary drinks contribute to the national obesity epidemic and kids or teens who drink a lot of soft drinks are 55% more likely to be overweight.

Take note of what you are drinking and don’t let this be the reason you don’t meet your weight loss goals. You can try switching to low sugar versions of your favorites, but a better solution is to drink water or tea, or black coffee instead. Don’t be fooled by fruit juices either, most of these are made from concentrate, and are jam packed with sugar and preservatives.  They might look healthy, but are part of the problem, so don’t be fooled.

What you are watching:

Unfortunately, we live in a society that is constantly telling us to eat – even if we aren’t hungry.  Think about all the food ads around you day on a daily basis. Advertisements, commercials, special occasions and holidays all cue us to eat and drink. Seeing food everywhere we go triggers food cravings, which make you feel as if you are hungry when you aren’t.

To avoid this pitfall, try not to put yourself in situations that are constantly cuing food.  This means bringing your own snacks to the movies, bringing a list to the super market, and avoiding places like food courts. It’s tough to resist, but avoiding is sure to help your willpower win.

Unrealistic expectations:

1-2 pounds per week is healthy and attainable goal.  Trying to lose too much weight at once is unhealthy can be discouraging as this is not realistic to maintain.  Many people think they will lose weight it took them years to put on, in a few weeks.  But weight loss is a commitment to change.  Without making changes to lifestyle – diet and exercise – you cannot expect to reach healthy weight.  Although not one method works for everyone, the general key is to make long term lifestyle changes that will help you to maintain weight loss goals.