Over time, the constant availability of technology has changed the way we live our lives on a day-to-day basis. However, often faulted as one of the biggest contributing factors to sedentary behavior and weight gain, technology can be seen as a double-edged sword. Although too much time spent online on our technical devices can certainly contribute to a host of problems – both physically and mentally – our use of online resources can provide us with a unique opportunity to improve our weight and health if done in moderation.
Think about it.
How many times a day do you log-in online to your social media accounts or search something on the Internet? If you’re like most Americans (73 percent), you do this several times a day. The truth is, if you’re strategic, checking your phone/laptop/other devices can turn your goals into healthy habits which you can use to create a healthy lifestyle.
Seeking Online Resources for Your Journey? Consider these Guidelines for Your Technology Road Map
Before jumping into the world of technology that is at your fingertips, keep this in mind:
- Follow Professional Advice – Always follow advice from a physician or other healthcare professional. Although abundant, online advice can sometimes be questionable and lack reputable sources to back it. Don’t let the information you find online replace what your doctor or a trusted professional has to say.
- Follow General Safety Rules – Don’t always assume that what you post online is always private. For safety reasons, don’t share anything online that you wouldn’t want the whole world to potentially read.
Now, let’s get started assessing some of the options that are out there for you.
Social Apps
If you’re looking for general information and specific tools that you can use for nutrition, fitness and more, you might consider the host of apps online that are specially designed to make your lives easier in numerous ways. Following are just a few examples.
Pinterest – Create “boards” of things you find online and turn them into visual bookmarkers. These may be healthy recipes, workout routines or encouraging quotes – the possibilities are endless!- Twitter – Find anything online by searching through hashtags (words or phrases preceded by the pound sign, #) or by using your own. Typing a hashtag and searching for tweet updates online can make it easier to find other people talking about a specific subject. Popular examples include #weightloss, #nutrition, #fitness, #cardio, etc.
- Youtube – Youtube is the largest videosharing site and you can use it to find videos on virtually any topic. Many people use it to learn how to do specific exercises, make certain meals or search for information on educational topics you may not be familiar with.
Support Groups
The journey with weight and health is always harder on your own. By finding support and encouragement in others, you may find it easier to navigate the ups and downs that creating a healthier body and lifestyle entails. A few popular, helpful online groups are listed below.
- My Fitness Pal Community – Find discussion boards, inspiration, tips and more.
- The Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) – Find in-person support groups that are specific to your state
- Hospital Support Groups – Your Physician, bariatric surgeon or dietitian may have a list of support groups you can attend or find online that are relevant to your specific goals and experiences.
Health and Fitness Apps
Apps are designed to make your everyday life easier – whether you’re trying to lose weight, drink more water or squeeze in extra activity into your day. The following apps are great places to start.
- Lose It! – This app is a built-in health tracker that allows you to keep a food diary and exercise log. You can participate in various health challenges that will motivate and guide you to better health. (Free with in-app purchases)
- Waterlogged – Track your daily water intake and use this app to determine when you need to be drinking more.
- HealthyOut – Use this app to find the healthiest dishes available to you when you eat out. Narrow your searches with filters for calorie counts, allergies, specific cuisines and more.
So, don’t rule technology out completely! Online resources have the power to equip you with the tools and information you need to be successful on your journey with weight and health.
For more online resources, you can read the full article from Your Weight Matters Magazine by CLICKING HERE.
