Im dieting and walking/exercising daily, yet my weight is increasing

Question
I've reduced my caloric intake to approximatly 1600-1800 per day depending on my activity level that day.  I'm eating vegetables, whole grains, and chicken for protein.  I'm exercising at least 30 minutes a day.  I'm taking a multi-vitamin, a fish oil supplement, vitamin D and vitamin C.

I'm gaining weight.  I understand muscle over fat, but my clothes aren't fitting any better either.  I've been doing this for approximately  weeks and my weight has increased from 145 - 154...  I'm only 5'2".

Could you please provide any insight that you may have as to why I'm gaining instead of losing...?

Thank you,
Catherine


Answer
Hello Catherine!

   Thank you for your nutrition question. It is very common when trying to lose weight to gain. Your body may be holding on to the calories because you are cutting back sending you into starvation mode.  
    In order to reverse this process, I would recommend that you spread out your calorie intake. For example, eat 3 small meals and 2 healthy snacks in between. You can create a healthy eating plan at www.mypyramid.gov that is tailored to your needs. This will help to boost your metabolism(rate which you burn calories) and kickstart your weight loss.
   You can also incorporate some light weightlifting into your exercise routine such as working with 3-5lb dumbells. Building muscle helps to boost your metoblism also.
   Sometimes certain supplements may also cause weight gain. I would recommend checking out Juice Plus which is on my website www.juiceblend.com. It is made entirely from fresh fruits and vegetables.  Let me know if you have more questions.

-George Rapitis, Bsc. Nutritionist
www.dietitian.mymagicwand.com

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