Why your weight fluctuates and 5 easy fixes

If you’re on a journey to drop pounds, weight fluctuations can be a bit disappointing. But don’t get discouraged; the causes of these increases and decreases may be beyond your control. Water retention, hormones and the time of day you weigh in could be to blame for inconsistencies.

Rest assured, fluctuations in your weight are normal—most of the time. Here are five reasons the numbers on the scale might rise and fall, despite your best efforts both in the kitchen and at the gym.

Medically reviewed in September 2019.