Whoosh Effect
A sudden drop in weight after a plateau due to water release.
The whoosh effect describes a sudden drop after a period of little change. The body releases retained water, which reveals earlier fat loss. This can happen after days or weeks of stability. It is a common pattern and part of normal progress.
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.