What Weight Loss Advice That Everyone Gives Doesn’t Work for You?

What Weight Loss Advice That Everyone Gives Doesn’t Work for You?

When it comes to weight loss, there’s no shortage of advice. Drink more water. Cut carbs. Don’t eat after 7 p.m. Count calories. Do cardio. The list is endless—and overwhelming. But as many people on a long-term weight journey discover, some of the most commonly repeated advice just doesn’t work for everyone.

Take, for example, the classic “just eat less and move more.” While it sounds simple, it doesn’t account for individual differences in metabolism, hormones, mental health, or even access to time and resources. For some, this mantra leads to burnout and frustration rather than lasting results.

Another piece of advice that often misses the mark is “don’t eat past a certain time.” While late-night snacking can be an issue, some people work night shifts, have different schedules, or simply do better when they spread meals out evenly throughout the day. The timing of your meals should work for your lifestyle, not against it.

“Cut out all sugar” is another tough one. Yes, reducing added sugars can be beneficial, but going completely sugar-free isn’t realistic—or necessary—for most people. In fact, overly restrictive rules can trigger bingeing or disordered eating behaviors. Learning how to enjoy treats in moderation can be far more sustainable.

Even advice like “weigh yourself every day” doesn’t work for everyone. While some find it helps them stay accountable, others become obsessive or discouraged by normal weight fluctuations. Non-scale victories—like strength gains, improved mood, or how clothes fit—are often better indicators of progress.

And then there’s cardio. The idea that endless hours on the treadmill is the key to fat loss ignores the importance of strength training. For many people, lifting weights and building muscle leads to better body composition, improved metabolism, and longer-term success than cardio alone.

The reality is that what works for one person may not work for another. Factors like age, hormones, medical history, body type, and personal preference all play a role. That’s why it’s important to listen to your body, track your progress in multiple ways, and be willing to pivot when something isn’t working.

Instead of following every piece of generic advice, focus on building habits that feel good, fit your life, and are sustainable in the long run. If something isn't working—even if everyone says it should—it's okay to ditch it.

At the end of the day, the best weight loss plan is the one that works for you, not the one that works for everyone else.