
Ask a Dietitian: Why Does My Weight Fluctuate So Much?
If you’ve ever stepped on the scales and seen your weight jump up or down a pound or two overnight, you’re not alone. These small shifts can feel frustrating—especially if you’re working hard on your health goals—but the truth is they’re completely normal. At Flush GBI, we emphasise looking at long-term progress and body balance, not short-term numbers.
Here are the most common reasons behind everyday weight fluctuations:
1. Water Retention
Your body naturally holds onto fluid at different times. The most common triggers are:
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Salty meals: Sodium binds to water, disrupting your body’s fluid balance and leading to temporary water retention.
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Hormonal cycles: During menstruation, fluid retention typically peaks on the first day of menstrual flow, often causing bloating and weight spikes.
This isn’t fat gain—it’s simply your body holding water.
2. Carbohydrate Intake
Carbs are your body’s primary fuel. But storing them requires water: for every gram of carbohydrate, the body retains 2–3 grams of water.
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After a carb-heavy meal (like pasta), you may notice an increase on the scale.
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As your body uses this stored energy, the associated water is released—bringing your weight back down.
3. Fluid Balance
Exercise, sweat, and hydration all shift your body weight daily.
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After a workout: You may weigh less due to fluid loss.
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Once rehydrated: Your weight will return to normal.
This is why daily weigh-ins can be misleading.
4. Stress & Cortisol
When you’re stressed, your body releases cortisol—the “stress hormone.” Elevated cortisol can:
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Increase water retention.
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Influence digestion and metabolism.
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Drive cravings for calorie-dense “comfort” foods.
Stress management is just as important as diet when it comes to stable weight and overall wellbeing.
The Flush GBI Approach
Instead of fixating on the scales, Flush GBI protocols encourage:
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Reducing toxic load (e.g., excess sodium, processed foods).
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Maintaining balance through hydration, smart nutrition, and regular detox support.
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Tracking progress by how you feel—energy, digestion, mood—rather than obsessing over small day-to-day fluctuations.
Key Takeaway
Yes—your weight will fluctuate daily, and that’s perfectly normal. The number on the scale is just one piece of the bigger picture. Focus on consistent habits, detox balance, and long-term trends—not momentary shifts. If you see significant or sustained changes, check in with your doctor for guidance.