Losing weight and keeping it off is not an event, but more of a process that develops over time. According to the Weight Watchers Research Department, most people pass through a predictable pattern when making changes in their lives. Knowing what to expect when beginning a new diet can help you overcome obstacles that may have thwarted your weight loss efforts in the past.
Motivation
Most dieters start thinking about going on a diet when they have an external motivation. According to Mental Help.net, this first stage sets up the dieter to meet a specific challenge, such as getting into an old pair of jeans or fitting into a smaller wedding dress. The motivation begins the thinking process that precludes the actual diet plan and physical changes required of a successful weight loss program.
Education
A successful weight loss program usually includes a period of education when the dieter takes the challenge seriously and starts looking for information. According to Mental Help.net, many dieters skip this stage and jump into a diet without all the necessary tools. Nutrition information, how calories affect weight loss and gain, what activities promote weight loss and what tools are readily available are just some of the areas a successful dieter must master before being able to come up with a plan that will work.
Planning
Preparation is key to successful weight loss, according to Mental Help.net. Part of the planning process involves goal setting. Set small, short-term goals as well as realistic long-term goals. You must take time to get your kitchen ready for the experience by eliminating temptations and stocking up on the necessary staples that will help you reduce calories and maintain your health. Meal planning is an important tool needed to start a successful dieting plan. Take into consideration holidays and restaurant outings when setting up your complete diet plan. Shop for food so that it will be ready on the date you choose to begin the diet. Consider your lifestyle when creating a calorie budget and planning an exercise routine.
Action
According to the Cancer Prevention Research Center, the action stage of a well-planned weight loss program should last for at least six months. While you may have a longer term set for your final weight loss goal, you should prepare to actively stick to your plan for six months and then maintain that lower weight before trying to lose more. During the action stage, you are eating the appropriate amount of calories and exercising regularly. Healthy weight loss should be sustained at about one to two pounds a week.
Maintenance
The toughest stage in any weight loss program is the maintenance stage when you should shoot to keep your new weight for at least six months. During the maintenance phase, you may lapse from time to time, but you must stay vigilant with your weight monitoring so that if you gain a pound or two, you can take steps to remove it quickly. Sustaining weight loss requires a change in lifestyle and habits that come from practice and vigilance.
Member Comments