Water Retention
Temporary holding of fluid caused by carbs, salt, or stress.
The body can hold onto water in response to stress, food choices, or hormonal changes. This can make weight loss appear slower than it is. Water retention often resolves on its own once conditions stabilize. Staying consistent helps the body return to balance.
Related Topics
Related glossary terms
Adaptation Phase
A period where the body adjusts to a new lower weight and slower loss.
Defended Weight
A weight range the body resists leaving.
Holding Pattern
A period where weight remains stable before continuing downward.
Measurement Lag
Delay between fat loss and visible change on the scale.
Plateau
A period where weight stays within a narrow range despite a calorie deficit, often due to water retention or adaptation.
Rebound Weight
Temporary weight increase after eating following a fast.
Scale Volatility
Frequent short-term weight changes caused by water, food, and hormones.
Water Fluctuations
Short-term weight changes caused by shifts in water balance.