5 Questions to Guide You to a Healthy Weight

Starting a journey to a healthy weight can greatly improve your life, both physically and mentally. Here are five important questions that will help you create effective and sustainable goals for achieving a healthy weight.

1. Is This a Fad Diet?

When choosing a way to manage your weight, it’s important to evaluate the diets you’re considering. Fad diets often promise quick results but usually aren’t sustainable long-term. They can limit the nutrients you get, which can harm your health more than help it. Instead, look for well-rounded diet plans endorsed by health professionals, which include various nutrients and are meant for long-term use. This ensures you’re not missing out on important nutrients while working toward your weight goals.

2. Is My Plan Achievable?

It’s important to have a weight loss or maintenance plan that fits into your daily life. An achievable plan considers your current lifestyle and makes gradual changes rather than drastic ones. For example, if you love eating out, instead of cutting it out entirely, you could start by choosing healthier menu options or reducing the frequency of your visits. This way, you’re more likely to stick to your plan and see it through to success.

3. Are My Goals Reasonable?

Set goals that make sense for you and can be reached step by step. If your target is too ambitious, like losing a lot of weight in a short period, it can be disheartening when progress doesn’t happen as quickly as hoped. A better approach is to set smaller, manageable goals. For instance, aim to lose one to two pounds per week or to incorporate a new healthy habit each month. Celebrating these small victories can keep you motivated on your journey.

4. Should I Work with My Physician?

Consulting a physician or a dietitian when planning weight loss is a smart move. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current condition. They can also help monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed, ensuring that you remain healthy and effective in your efforts.

5. Would I Be This Hard on a Friend?

Be kind to yourself during this process. If you wouldn’t push a friend too hard or criticize them for occasional slips, you shouldn’t do it to yourself. Maintaining a supportive and forgiving mindset is key. Recognize that there will be ups and downs, and being too strict can make you feel stressed and less likely to stick with your plan.

Remember, your diet and exercise routine greatly impact your overall health and wellness, including maintaining a healthy weight. Taking steps towards eating right and exercising regularly can also improve aspects of your health that you might not have realized were suffering. Best wishes on achieving your health goals this year!

Sources:

“Weight loss and fad diets,” Better Health Channel, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/weight-loss-and-fad-diets
“Maintaining Weight Loss,” John Hopkins Medicine, https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/maintaining-weight-loss
“Weight loss – a healthy approach,” Better Health Channel, https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/weight-loss-a-healthy-approach
“Is It Worth Working with a Dietitian for Weight Loss and Management?” Culina Health, https://culinahealth.com/worth-working-dietitian-weight-loss/