If you’ve ever tried to lose weight, you know dieting can be stressful. That’s because once most people commit to weight loss, they want to see results now.
The secret to less stress and long-term success is your focus. Instead of trying to will yourself thin, focus on eating healthy and increasing activity. Weight loss is a long-term goal. You deserve daily successes. The scale won’t give you that—no matter how little you eat or how much you exercise. But every time you eat healthy, every time you choose the stairs instead of the elevator, you experience success.
True and long-lasting weight loss doesn’t come from starving yourself or going on fad diets. It comes from nourishing your body with the right kind of foods that will make you glow. It’s eating all the food groups in the recommended amounts. Emphasize low-fat foods, whole grains, fruits and lots of vegetables. Watch portion sizes. Remember that some beverages have more calories than food. Consider all the foods you eat—snacks count, and eating while cooking counts. You’d be surprised at how little bites here and there can add up to major calories by the end of the day.
Increasing activity is very important to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Choose activities you enjoy. Exercise is a gift that will allow you to be strong and healthy and get the most out of life. It’s not punishment for overindulgence.
Be proud that you have made the commitment to yourself. For what’s at stake is much more than fitting into those jeans. Improving your weight (even if you only lose a few pounds) reduces your risk of high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes and cancer. So make the right changes and make them for life!
For more information, go to www.mypyramid.gov to build your personalized eating and activity plan.