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Natural Weight Loss: It Works!
Losing weight has become a MUST for many modern Americans. With 1/3 of the adult population registering as obese, dangerous conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and stroke our increasing exponentially. How can you lose weight without succumbing to dangerous diet drugs and poor dietary habits? We have a few ideas...
In the United States alone nearly 2/3 of adults are considered overweight and 1/3 are obese (being defined as a 30 or higher on the Body Mass Channel, or BMI, scale). While the BMI isn't a perfect system, it's a starting point for figuring out where you are and where you need to go.
Begin by considering that approximately $30 billion or more gets spent annually on weight loss products. The message this creates to an informed consumer is this: there is no such thing as quick, easy, no-effort, no-commitment weight loss. I spent three years trying all types of diets, only to find that they failed within 1-3 months. Needless to say, giving up usually seemed easier.
Do NOT give up! You and your physician are the only people who can determine the best program for your natural weight loss. If you have other physical issues like heart conditions or diabetes it's vital that you use the resources available in your transitional planning. Why do I say transitional? Because natural weight loss means committing to a lifestyle change --- right here, right now.
Just over a year ago I was 199 (5' 9" - 48 years old; 3 kids). When I saw that figure on the scale it scared the heck out of me. I know many of you feel likewise, but have no idea how to succeed.
I'm going to share what's helped me, in the hopes that at least one or two help you reach your goals:
Set reasonable expectations: You didn't gain weight over night, you won't lose over night. Slow and steady wins this race.
Experiment with different routines: Give every routine at least two months time to be effective. Track what you eat, drink, etc. and how that effects results. When you hit on one program that seems to work for you... keep going with the current plan and continue tracking your progress.
Data Count: keep a spread sheet of what you eat and drink daily and calorie count; keep a sheet that details your activity level; balance intake of food vs. out take (burning calories) and compare the results.
Take before and after pictures / measurements: many times when you feel like nothing is happening, you're exchanging fat for muscle, and it can be how much weight you appear to have lost can be deceiving. This gives you a reliable reference.
Set a routine: humans are beings of habit. Make exercise and healthy food choices part of your daily ritual (along with anyone in your home)
Rally the Troops: Supportive people really help. Find a work-out partner, a menu partner (or two), etc. Get your family onboard as well. Everyone can stand to improve their diets in one way or another.
Read Labels (yes, all of them): What you are IS what you eat! Keep a spreadsheet to track your intake and exercise daily. You'll find with time this is a very valuable tool for re-training yourself for wholeness.
Add a good, natural multi-vitamin supplement to your natural weight loss plan: People who "diet" often lose out on the very vitamins and minerals they need for long-term results. Consult with a nutritionist if you're uncertain as to what you most need based on age and health issues. (Link takes you to the Envy My Health Supplement Guide! Opens in New Window)
Finally, I highly advocate changing up your activities. I've found that while the glider and exercise bike worked fine for a while, my body adjusted. So now I dance in my kitchen at least two days a week for as much time as my schedule allows. I will also be walking during my lunch hours as soon as weather breaks.
As of the writing of this article I am at 152-154 pounds on a daily basis. Has it been hard? You bet! Has it been worth it? Absolutely. I have more energy than even some of my teenage kid's companions!
Quite simply folks - find what works for you and don't give up. You don't need to spend thousands of dollars to get healthy; just be committed to your future and make healthy options a part of your daily ritual and you CAN realize your goals.
Diet Plans and Weight Loss
Need to learn more about good and bad diets? Then visit this website for more information.
For more information on natural weight loss, visit the Envy My Health Weight Management Channel!
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