Are you working hard to lose weight and get in shape, but struggling to see results? You might be making some common dieting mistakes that can actually lead to weight gain instead of loss.

Here are five of the most common dieting errors that could be sabotaging your efforts.

1. Skipping Meals

One of the biggest mistakes people make when they’re trying to lose weight is skipping meals. While it might seem like a good idea to cut calories by skipping breakfast or lunch, this can actually cause your body to hold onto fat.

When you skip a meal, your body thinks that you’re in danger of running out of resources and slows down your metabolism to conserve energy. This means that when you do eat, your body is more likely to store the calories as fat instead of burning them for energy.

2. Overeating Healthy Foods

While it’s important to eat a balanced diet full of healthy fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, it’s also possible to overeat on these types of foods.

Just because something is healthy doesn’t mean you can eat as much of it as you want. Sweet potatoes, avocados, nuts, and olive oil are all healthy choices, but they’re also high in calories and fat.

Be mindful of your portion sizes and pay attention to how many calories you’re consuming, even if it’s from healthy foods.

3. Drinking Too Many Calories

Drinking your calories can be a sneaky way to sabotage your diet. Sodas, juices, and energy drinks are all high in sugar and calories, and can quickly add up if you’re not careful.

Stick to water, tea, and black coffee to hydrate throughout the day without adding unnecessary calories. If you’re struggling to give up your favorite sugary drinks, try switching to a lower calorie version or cutting back gradually until you can go without them entirely.

4. Relying Too Much on Processed Foods

Processed foods can be convenient and tasty, but they’re also often high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats. If you’re relying too much on packaged snacks, frozen meals, and fast food, you could be sabotaging your weight loss efforts.

Try to incorporate more whole foods into your diet, like fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These foods will help fuel your body and keep you feeling full without adding extra calories and unhealthy ingredients.

5. Cutting Out Entire Food Groups

Eliminating entire food groups from your diet, like carbs or fats, can be tempting when you’re trying to lose weight. However, this can actually lead to more harm than good.

Your body needs a balanced diet of carbs, fats, and proteins to function properly. Cutting out entire food groups can leave you feeling tired, moody, and deprived. Instead of eliminating entire food groups, focus on incorporating healthy versions of each into your meals.

By avoiding these five common dieting errors, you can set yourself up for success on your weight loss journey. Remember to be patient and consistent in your efforts, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you slip up every now and then.

With the right mindset and approach, you can achieve your weight loss goals and feel healthier, happier, and more confident than ever before.