There’s no denying how difficult it can be to lose weight and keep it off. While some people seem to be able to maintain their ideal weight with little effort, others find themselves struggling year after year. If you’re obese and looking to take control of your weight, consider following these key steps:
1) Make a commitment to change.
The first step in any journey is making a commitment to change. Until you make the decision to get healthy and lose weight, nothing will change over the long haul. So, it’s important to be honest with yourself and find what motivates you to make a change. Do you want to be able to play with your kids or grandkids without being out of breath? Do you want to look and feel better in your clothes? Once you know what your motivators are, write them down and refer back to them when temptation strikes.
2) Set realistic goals.
It’s important not to set yourself up for failure by setting unrealistic goals. When you’re trying to lose weight, aim to lose one to two pounds per week. This may seem like a slow pace, but it’s the safest and most sustainable way to reach your goal weight. Ultimately, you want to be able to maintain your weight loss after reaching your goal, and slow and steady wins the race in this case.
3) Make a healthy eating plan.
The best way to lose weight is by making small changes to your diet that you can stick with over time. Start by cutting back on processed foods and sugary drinks, and make sure to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your meals. Try to cook at home as much as possible, and make sure to pack healthy snacks for when you’re on the go.
4) Find an exercise program you enjoy.
Exercise is an important part of any weight loss journey, but it’s important to find an activity you enjoy. If you hate running, don’t make a goal to start running every day. Instead, try swimming, hiking, or biking. The key is to find something that gets your heart rate up and makes you feel good.
5) Avoid temptation.
It’s inevitable that you’ll be faced with temptations along the way, but it’s important to do your best to avoid them. This means steering clear of unhealthy foods and avoiding situations that might lead to overeating. If you can’t avoid temptation, try to have a healthy alternative on hand so you’re not tempted to give in.
6) Stay accountable.
One of the best ways to stay on track is to find an accountability partner. This is someone who can help keep you motivated and honest, and who will be there to support you every step of the way. You can also join a weight loss support group or blog to find like-minded people who can help you stay on track.
7) Consider surgery.
For some people, surgery may be the best option for weight loss. This is a major decision, and you should discuss all of your options with your doctor before making a decision. Weight loss surgery is not right for everyone, but it can be an effective tool for those who are struggling to lose weight. You can find excellent Bariatric Surgery in Ottawa, and it could make all the difference for you