According to the Gallup’s 2013 Health and Healthcare survey, 51 percent of Americans want to lose weight. With more than half of the country wanting to shed a few pounds, there’s a good chance that you could be a part of that 51 percent. But, did you know that you could be setting yourself up for failure before you even begin? Here are four ways to take the stress out of losing weight.
1. Be realistic.
You didn’t gain all of those unwanted pounds overnight, right? Well, you’re not going to lose all of them overnight either.
Whether you have 15, 40 or 100+ pounds to lose, it’s going to take some time, so don’t beat yourself up.
You’re only human for goodness sake, so expect a few slip-ups along the way.
And get this: Studies have shown that those who lose weight gradually and steadily are more likely to keep it off in the long run. Start making healthier choices today and watch those pounds melt off.
2. Make fitness fun.
Many of us groan at the thought of working out, but exercise doesn’t have to be a drag. Why not spice it up by adding a buddy? You could even throw in a friendly competition by signing up for a group class or taking up a sport.
Also, mix it up! No one wants to do the same exercise routine day in and day out. If the treadmill is your thing, try switching it up by walking around your neighborhood on a nice day. Your workout is what you make it, so make it fun!
3. Eat, Eat and Eat Again
When many try to lose weight for the first time, they first think about what they cannot eat. But really, when you examine what it takes to lose weight, it's about what you are eating and not about what you're not.
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Don't stop eating, just start eating the right foods. Remember the age-old statement, "everything in moderation" as well as "listen to your body." Your body will tell you when you've had too much, don't let your mind tell you differently.
4. Do it for yourself.
“Why do I want to lose weight?” “Do I want to improve my health?” “Am I doing it to please others?” “Am I setting realistic goals?” “How will I track my progress?” These are just some of the questions you should be asking yourself before beginning your weight loss journey.
Losing weight is already stressful enough and doing so for the wrong reasons can make it worse. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to shed a little extra weight as long as you do it for yourself and yourself only.
Visit the BlackDoctor.org Healthy Weight Loss center for more articles.
