That's why it's so important to take other baseline measurements. As I wrote in Positively Ageless, Dr. Huizenga, (the sports doc behind the The Biggest Loser) says that an ordinary tape measurement of your waist, may be the most cost-effective way to follow your fat loss at home.
Have a friend or family member place a nonmetal tape measure around your waist, exactly parallel to the floor at belly-button level. After you let out a breath, have your helper take two waist circumference readings -- do additional readings if these two are more than half an inch different. This measurement, along with your starting weight, can be an effective way to track your progress. I always track waist measurements as well as weights, when following clients in my private practice. Even if the scale stops moving for awhile, the tape measurement is a trusty back-up to reflect the results of your hard work.
Other important points discussed last night included some of the healthy cooking tips provided by Chef Rocco Dispirito.
On a grocery store tour, Rocco recommended that contestants shop the perimeter of the store where most of the healthier, whole foods are found. He also pointed out that the more processed, more expensive and more unhealthy items are often found on the inner aisles of the store.
Rocco then helped contestants shop for ingredients needed for the recipes he shared with them.
Amy C won the cooking competition with Rocco's recipe for Tiny Turkey Meatball and Chickpea Soup with Broccoli Rabe and Pecorino Cheese. This recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the Biggest Loser eating plan as it's loaded with protein, fiber, complex carbs and lots of veggies.
Stay tuned for more nutrition and weight loss tips and healthy recipes galore!


Cheryl Forberg, RD, is a James Beard award-winning chef, a bestselling author and the former nutritionist for NBC's "The Biggest Loser." 