With the countless amount of weight loss tips out there today, it can be a real challenge for weight loss patients to determine what advice is worth following and what tips should be ignored. The truth of the matter is that no two bodies are exactly alike so everyone responds to weight loss strategies in a different way. This means that while some tips may work for you, they may not be as effective for your friend or family member.
However, there are several strategies for weight loss success that will help you drop the pounds regardless of your body type. Total HealthcareMD recommends the following weight loss diet strategies to all of our patients.
1. Commit to Weight Loss
Weight loss is not possible without dedication. Instead of solely focusing on losing weight, think about how weight loss will impact your overall lifestyle and happiness. By looking at the big picture and a future of health and happiness, you’ll be more likely to stick to your weight loss diet plans and commit to working towards creating the healthiest version of yourself.
2. Combat Large Portions
Unfortunately, portion sizes have drastically increased over the past few decades. Large portion sizes that are now the norm at restaurants as well as in the homes of many individuals significantly hinder weight loss diet plans. If you control the amount of food that you eat during every meal, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your weight loss goals. To make portion control easier, you can compare food sizes to everyday objects. Here are some examples:
- A baked potato should be the size of a computer mouse.
- Beef, chicken or fish should resemble the size of a computer mouse.
- Cooked vegetables should be served in the size of the bulb portion of a light bulb.
3. Consume High Fiber Foods
Studies have proven that implementing fiber in weight loss diets is key. Foods that are high in fiber take more time to digest, making it possible for you to feel full for a longer period of time. In addition, high fiber fruits and vegetables are full of water and provide volume that is free of calories. Some of the most popular and tasty high fiber foods that you should add to your meals include apples, pears, whole-wheat pasta and tortillas, oatmeal, and flaxseed.
4. Engage in Regular Physical Activity
It’s a known fact that the more you move and exercise, the more calories you’ll burn. Calorie burning is an essential aspect of weight loss and should not be ignored. To track the amount of calories you burn through regular physical activity, you can purchase a pedometer. Keep in mind that when designing an exercise routine, cardio training should be combined with strength and flexibility training to enjoy lasting long term results.
5. Consult a Physician
Seeking professional medical support to assist you with your weight loss diet plans is essential. Physicians have the knowledge and experience necessary to create an effective weight loss diet plan that is customized to fit your particular body type, needs, and preferences.
Here at Total HealthcareMD, Dr. Martin van Cleef will work with you to help you lose weight and keep it off for good. Contact us today for more information on our personalized weight loss services.