Plateau Survival Plan

 Plateau Survival Plan
GPT-5 8/25/25

1. Redefine a Plateau

  • A true plateau = 4+ weeks with no weight change.
  • Short stalls (1–2 weeks) are normal body adjustments.

2. Mindset Anchors

  • Expect plateaus: they are adaptation, not failure.
  • Celebrate non-scale victories (clothes, energy, labs).
  • Remember your 'why': independence, health, energy.

3. Tools to Break a Plateau (use 1–2)

  • Tighten tracking: measure food for accuracy.
  • Prioritize protein: 25–30g per meal (meat, eggs, beans, Greek yogurt).
  • Change exercise mix: add resistance or vary intensity.
  • Zig-zag calories: a few lower-point days, then one full-points day.
  • Check hydration & sodium: balance fluids, avoid excess salt.

4. Health Safeguards (Critical for You)

  • Never cut protein—protect muscle, immunity, and strength.
  • Keep fluid balance steady (avoid dehydration or overload).
  • Avoid >2 lbs/week loss to protect heart and kidneys.

5. Emergency Motivation Kit

  • Switch metrics: waist size, stamina, labs.
  • Visual cue: Post your 'why' somewhere visible.
  • Community check-in: Use WW group or a trusted friend.

6. Maintenance Practice

  • • If weight won’t move, hold steady for a month.
  • • Keep routines consistent—this is success training.
  • • Resume downward adjustments after your body adjusts.