People all over are looking for the best way to lose weight– that one elusive way which is effective, safe, doable and sustainable for life.  Unfortunately, the weight loss schemes being offered around the world are nowhere near meeting these criteria.

Some weight loss schemes are effective but not safe.

Some of the weight loss plans around are certainly effective in dropping weight, as they can bring about weight losses of more than a couple of pounds per week, but this is usually hazardous to health, as normal weight loss should not exceed 2 pounds per week.

Take, for instance, the myriad of weight loss pills, slimming teas and juices which often stimulate the colon excessively and bring about diarrhoea.  There is weight loss, of course, but this is due to loss of water, electrolytes and worse, nutrients.  People slim down but become dehydrated, and nutrient deficient, and malnourished if the weight loss strategy is continued into the medium term. 

Healthy weight loss should involve loss of fat and not loss of vital nutrients.

Some weight loss schemes are not sustainable.

There are also unrealistic weight loss plans which demand extreme diets such as subsisting on nothing but soup or certain foods, day in and day out, for protracted periods of time.  Again, this is an unsound weight loss plan, not only because it results in inadequate nutrition but also because such a diet cannot be sustained by a normal person for long.  Sooner or later, taste fatigue sets in, discipline snaps out of control and there is rebound binging. 

Healthy weight loss should be based on an adequate and nutritious diet incorporated into a lifestyle change which can be sustained over the long term.

The  best weight loss plan– according to nutritionists, dieticians and physicians.

Weight loss should be based on a healthy diet—one which provides adequate calories and nutritional content.  Specifically, a diet should provide enough energy for a person’s age, weight, gender and physical activity.  This diet should both be adequate and balanced.

Weight loss should be accompanied by sound, regular exercise—and one which combines aerobic, strength training and stretching.  This is to increase the metabolism, which actually slows down with dieting and aging.  Exercise should not be too limiting and should also be balanced by adequate rest as well.

Weight loss should be based on a diet which is not only adequate and nutritious but tasty and varied enough so that one can enjoy and stick to it.  This diet should be based mostly on a rainbow of different colors of fresh fruits and produce, whole grains and legumes, fish and healthy oils.  Meats should be lean.

You can be sure that this kind of weight loss makes one healthier, happier and with greater wellbeing.

{ 0 comments }