Updated September 04, 2014.

It's extremely common to hit a plateau at some point during your weight-loss journey. And obviously it can be really discouraging when the number on the scale doesn't move. Good news -- I've got some tips to help bust through that plateau and see the number get lower and lower...

Reevaluate Caloric Needs

As you lose weight, your body burns fewer calories... Sad, but true! This means that over time, you need to consume fewer calories to lose weight at the same rate.

You have two options. Either you can consume less food every day, or you can move a little more in order to make up that difference. Find out approximately how many calories you burn daily by clicking here. And remember -- you have to burn 3,500 calories more than you consume to lose one pound. To lose a pound a week, you need to eat 500 fewer calories than you burn each day.

Back to Basics...

Good habits sometimes fall by the wayside when you get too comfortable with a program, so make sure you're actually as on track as you THINK you are. For starters, write down EVERYTHING you eat. You may not realize how many little extras you're sneaking into your day. Also, make sure you measure out and/or weigh your foods. Measuring cups and a small kitchen scale are great tools you can use to ensure you're eating exactly the portions you're accounting for. Click here to get the 411 on more must-have kitchen tools.

Move!

Exercise burns calories. It's that simple! If you haven't started a workout routine yet, start by walking a few times a week or by trying out a dance class at the local gym.

(Click for more beginner tips.) If you've been working out, either step up your intensity or add an extra workout each week! If you're on a budget, there are a lot of free videos available online, from yoga and Pilates to cardio and dance. The key here is just to move more than usual, at least until you break through that weight-loss plateau.

Switch It Up...

Being consistent can be great, but sometimes you need to change things up to get your body back on track. If you typically eat three large meals and no snacks, try eating six mini meals instead. If you've been snacking a lot, try skipping those snacks and replacing them with larger meals. Once you've broken through the plateau, you can always go back to the plan that best fits your daily life.

Fresh Foods Over Packaged

If you've been eating too many meals out of a box or bag, you may want to try adding more fresh stuff to your diet. This is especially true if you're a fan of mom 'n pop brands. Those are sometimes less accurate than mass-produced items when it comes to the nutritional information. (Click for additional label-reading advice.) If you're struggling with stalled weight loss, you may want to skip prepared foods for now. Limiting packaged foods in favor of fresh foods (lean protein, fresh veggies and fruit, etc.) is a great way to jump-start your weight loss.

Beware of Bites...

We're all guilty of having an extra bite here and an extra bite there. But those extras have calories, and those calories can really add up! Try cutting out those extras --- or at least being totally honest and recording every single one of them in your food journal. You might be surprised to see you're eating more calories than you think!

Get Support

Invite friends to come with you on a walk, join an online community like Calorie Count, or sign up with a local group. Sometimes the support and help of others is all you need to get back on track... 

Drink Water

This might go without saying, but drinking water is super important. It keeps you hydrated, helps you feel full, and flushes out toxins. Travel everywhere with a bottle of water in hand, and try to drink at least eight cups of water daily. For more water info and ideas, click here.

Try a Jump-Start Diet!

Shameless self-promotion ahead... The Hungry Girl Diet is ideal for anyone looking to reinvigorate their weight loss. With an emphasis on natural foods and huge portions (delicious ones!), it's the perfect balance of structure and freedom. Plus, it works seamlessly with other flexible programs and diets. Get more info here!

For guilt-free recipes, food finds, tips 'n tricks, and more, sign up for free daily emails at hungry-girl.com!