Motivational Weight Loss

By Christine Haas, MS, CNS, CPT, Licensed Nutritionist

Weight loss is the best prevention and cure for many chronic health issues such as high blood pressure and adult onset diabetes. Weight loss can also help you feel better and boost your esteem.
What Does An Effective
Weight Loss Plan Look Like?
Weight is lost when fewer calories are consumed than burned on a daily basis. This initial concept is understood by most, but to achieve weight loss goals and keep the weight off patients need a weight loss program that produces immediate results without hunger. An effective weight loss program must also be motivating, easy to follow at home and in restaurants, reasonably priced, nutritionally sound, physician approved, research supported and designed for a lifetime.
We all know that diets do not work. However, 80% of weight loss, on average, for most adults is through nutrition. Therefore it is necessary to find a weight loss plan that is designed for a life time. A three phase nutrition plan that includes; the weight loss phase, a transition period and a weight maintenance program that includes exercise is a good choice.
During the weight loss phase low calorie, low fat, and nutritionally balanced meals should be combined with nutrition counseling. The timing, portion size and nutrient composition of meals should be designed to create rapid weight loss while preserving muscle tissue, and to eliminate physical hunger while providing energy.
To keep the metabolism up and blood sugar levels stable, meals should be consumed six times a day. Increasing daily activity and performing cadiovascular and strength training exercises should be gradually incorporated at this time.
A transition phase should then be implemented carefully under the supervision of a licensed nutritionist when there are only five to ten pounds left to lose. Weight loss will slow, but will continue while a variety of foods are incorporated.
Once the goal weight is achieved, weekly nutrition support should encourage a weight maintenance plan to include healthy snacks and portion control.
For effective weight loss results in the shortest amount of time possible without sacrificing health, contact a nutritionist who offers a weight loss program that works, and who will spend time with clients during the weight maintenance phase.