Is a weight-loss plan one of your current health goals? If so, you’re not alone. More than half of all Americans are actively trying to either lose or maintain their weight. And, as we always say, your weight matters for your health.
Sifting through the Information
On the other hand, weight-loss and weight maintenance are a lot harder when you’re lost in a sea of health information. There’s always a diet here, a diet there, and practically a diet everywhere you look. Should you be restricting calories or front-loading your exercise routine? And if you’re successful, is the weight likely to come back?
Almost everyone has these questions. However, the most important thing you can do as a health consumer is to do your research and get ahead of the game. If you’re armed with science-based information, you’re likely to make costly or harmful decisions that won’t do much for your weight and health in the long-term. Meeting with your healthcare provider on a regular basis can help.
Identifying a Healthy Weight-loss Plan
Obviously, it helps to know what kinds of weight-loss plans to avoid. But when it comes to taking action, what sorts of factors should you be looking for? Most weight-loss plans have these things in common:
- Practice Moderation – Cutting foods out “cold turkey” is unrealistic for most. All things, for the most part, can be eaten in moderation to maintain a healthy diet.
- Pair Nutrition with Exercise – Want to maximize your weight-loss results? Strive for at least 150 minutes of exercise per week that consists of both cardio and resistance training.
- Work with Your Healthcare Team – Primary physicians, nurses, dietitians and more can work with you one-on-one to determine what next steps you need to take for your health.
- Aim for Diversity – You’re more likely to stick to your nutrition goals if you eat plenty of diverse foods. This includes various lean meats, veggies, fruits and healthy whole grains.
- Set short-term and Long-term Goals – Don’t just aim for goals far off into the future. Set goals you can also reach for the week, month or even quarter.
- Find Accountability in Others – Don’t try to travel this journey alone! Seek the help of a family member, friend or healthcare provider who will provide emotional as well as practical support.
- Make it a Lifestyle – If your weight-loss plan is only meant to be followed short-term, you are likely to face weight regain. Make sure your efforts can be followed-through for a lifetime.
Want More Tips on Identifying a Healthy Weight-loss Plan?
You might try seeking the help of a commercial or medical weight-loss program. For additional tips, please CLICK HERE.
