Safe 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, patients need a weight loss program that produces immediate results and is easy to follow. A simple weight maintenance program is also necessary to keep the weight off.

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 are essential to create rapid weight loss while preserving muscle tissue and to eliminate physical hunger while providing energy. As we get older, our metabolism slows. To keep the metabolism up and blood sugar levels stable, meals should be consumed up to six times a day.

Increasing daily activity and performing cardiovascular and strength training exercises should be gradually incorporated. At this time, blood pressure should begin to decrease and sugar levels should begin to level off.

A plan to transition to the weight maintenance phase should then be implemented carefully under the supervision of a licensed nutritionist. 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 patients to keep the weight off.

For optimal health, contact a nutritionist who offers a weight loss program with support that is safe, produces immediate results and incorporates a variety of foods during the weight maintenance stage.