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Non-scale victories, otherwise known as NSV, better indicate our success in weight loss. (I believe this more than ever since participating in the carnivore community.) So, why does the scale get most of our attention?

The bathroom scale rivals Hollywood’s greatest villains in many of our lives. Some people refuse to step on one out of fear, while others can’t control themselves from daily (or more frequent) weight checks.

In reality, the number on the scale doesn’t matter and could easily be eliminated from the equation. For example, if you are wearing a size small, does the scale reading 160 lbs mean you are overweight? Not to mention, depending on your height and gender, your BMI here could read as obese, maybe not such a good indicator either. Charts do not properly account for muscularity even with low body fat.

If you are not trying to be average, do those charts matter?

Ironically, BMI and weight remain as commonly used standards. Let me be clear, I am not downplaying the obesity epidemic or my own obesity, the problem needs addressing.

A carnivorous way of eating potentially impacts body composition more than many other diets. After years of self-imposed nutritional abuse, consuming meat lends itself to building strong muscles and lean bodies. Those of us who dieted over the years, limiting nutrients and calories, often see an increase in muscle mass, which on the scale appears as weight gain. Fat, ultimately, has no option, but to burn. For some, initially, their body holds onto the fat while it re-nourishes. Over time, health and well-being results.

Disclaimer:

The following is intended as a discussion and exploration of our personal health and our experience with a carnivorous (all meat) way of eating, and is not meant to be taken as medical advice, or to suggest a cure or treatment for any disease or illness. If interested in this practice, please educate yourself thoroughly. Also, seek advice from a qualified holistic or medical professional. We do not accept liability for damage or injury that may allegedly arise from any information or suggestions herein. As with anything, taking yourself to extremes can be very dangerous unless you are well trained and know what you’re doing.

My Scale Addiction

Nearly a year ago now, I trashed my scale, which prior I had allowed to control my view of myself. Throughout my life, I struggled with weight issues, allergies, hormonal imbalances among other things. I watched and tracked everything I ate. Religiously, I checked my weight to determine food reactions, which drove me to perpetual misery. I constantly wanted to know my number, openly obsessed. They say the stress caused by these actions builds cortisol which exacerbates the problem (gaining weight).

At the time, I did not trust my body and used the scale as a scapegoat rather than being in tune with my body’s needs.

Life Beyond the Scale – Some Automatic NSV

I’ll admit, there could be people who ditch the scale and lose all accountability, but I truly believe they are few and far between. However for the scale obsessed, donating, trashing, or destroying the scale opens up much need mental space. Mental space useful for many other things.

Without the scale, I:

Don’t stress or obsess over small fluctuations

Enjoy my day by not starting or ending it with a negative thought triggered by a number

Feel more in tune with my body

Appreciate the progress I make since I see it visibly

Realized I am worth more than what a scale tells me

Don’t hold off consuming food or beverage out of fear of weight gain, instead I choose what makes me feel best

Understand how much checking my weight negatively impacted my daily life

Seek NSV to benchmark my success on my path to optimal well-being The list really could go on and on!



NSV: Health

Nearly a decade ago, my doctor diagnosed me with Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS. I took the diagnosis seriously and never missed an appointment or my medication. Additionally, I researched everything I could find on the subject. Soon after, I started having extreme seasonal allergies, which I never suffered from prior. In regard to the PCOS, I found information correlating diabetes, sugar, and internal deficiencies, but no real cure. For the allergies, I popped an OTC daily pill and didn’t think much of it. Over time, my allergies worsened to the point where I would take a daily OTC and Benadryl just to function.

For five years, I struggled with no improvements. Then, after a cancer scare and Candida overgrowth issue, I decided to quit consuming added sugar. Initially, I saw success on the scale, but I did not feel much better than before. I had done Paleo in the past, so I was familiar with LCHF diets. I stumbled upon the Bulletproof diet. Butter coffee provided an instant kick in the butt effect like my brain kicked into a new gear. Quickly, my PCOS symptoms faded and regulated and my allergies lessened.

Far from cured, but I knew I moved in the right direction.

As I progress as a carnivore, my symptoms continue to improve. I haven’t felt this normal in my body in a while.

NSV: Clothing and Measurements

Fat weighs far less than muscle for the amount of space it takes up. My clothes feel looser, my arms look more toned.

Last week, I dug through my drawers for something new to wear, I found a shirt tag still on. When I bought the shirt, I decided it didn’t fit “yet” and kept it. Without much thought, I tried it on and, not only did it fit, it was somewhat loose. Simple things in life have the power to make you feel victorious!

Several Other NSV I’ve Noticed So Far – 7 Weeks ZC

Better Sleep – Deeper sleep, awaken more refreshed

More Focus – Able to work more efficiently for more prolonged periods

Substantial Improvement in areas of food addiction Not succumbing to any food cravings since starting carnivore woe Went out to dinner with friends and committed to ribeye and water only Realizing I don’t need a cheat day, and that a cheat day cheats me

Physical Achievements Doubled the number of push-ups I can complete in one set Working on achieving my first pull-up Increase in flexibility Minimal to no joint pain Stretching hip flexors reducing lower back pain

More Energy

Greater Positivity/Less Negative/Calmer

I smile and laugh more and feel exceedingly vibrant

Less likely to procrastinate on work

Without the pressure of the scale or a complicated way of eating, my mind enjoys free time to appreciate and be grateful for my life.

Non-Scale Victories

When it comes to NSV, the proper mindset is everything. As you progress in your personal development or weight loss journey, take the time to acknowledge the progress you make.

What seems small now builds over time. Of course, every master started a day one.

No matter your level, there are things you can’t do today, that in days, weeks, months, or years you will do well. In the meantime, forget about the scale and pursue those victories. It will be far more memorable than your daily trip to the bathroom scale.

I provide updates on my carnivore journey weekly, subscribe to our email list for notifications on the latest articles.

We’d love to hear some of our readers NSV, non-scale victories. Share with us in the comments below or email us at emails@dirtywindshield.com.

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