You don’t need me to tell you that losing weight and keeping it off is difficult, in fact, for some it is nearly impossible. Understanding why weight loss is so diffi­cult can help you stop beating yourself up over every setback and increase your chances of success. First, let’s distinguish between weight loss and fat loss. Weight loss is a reduc-tion in overall body weight, including muscle and water. Fat loss is a reduction in body fat only. Daily weight fluctuations can be influenced by sodium intake, hydration, exercise, menstruation, bowel movements (or lack of), stress and total calories consumed.