How to Maintain Weight Loss After a Diet?
It feels great to reach your weight loss goals. The last thing you want to do is sabotage your hard work by not having a plan and gaining it all back again.
The good news is, that with a little planning and focused effort, you can maintain your weight loss by living a healthy and mindful lifestyle. No more yo-yo weight gain and loss, learn to maintain your ideal weight.
Here are some helpful tips for what you need to know to maintain your weight loss.
Why People Regain Weight
About 80% of people who lose a significant amount of weight, gain it back over time. This can be frustrating and soul-crushing.
Individuals might regain weight after following a restrictive eating plan or have not developed eating habits that are sustainable during the weight loss process. Others may stop working out which can also add to weight gain.
How to Maintain Weight at Your Goal Weight
Some people find that losing weight is actually much easier than maintaining weight once lost. It takes a lot of effort and trial and error. Any changes to your eating plan and workout routine should be done slowly. It takes around 6 to 8 weeks for your body to get to a maintenance level.
Exercise Regularly
Regular exercise is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle, whether you are trying to lose weight or just maintain your current weight. It provides all kinds of benefits for overall health and wellbeing.
Exercising regularly burns calories to help ward off unwanted weight gain. Also, consider strength training as a part of a weight maintenance routine. When you have more muscle mass, your body will burn more calories, even at its resting point.
Adults should get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate to intense physical activity and at least 2 days of strength training exercise. Make sure to develop a program that works best for you and your lifestyle so you can keep up with it.
Be Mindful of What You Are Eating
It is very common for people to return to their old and unhealthy eating habits once they’ve reached their goal weight. There are different ways to approach eating and to be mindful of your eating habits throughout the day.
For example, tracking your food can help you monitor what you are eating and help support your goals to maintain your goal weight.
“Intuitive” eating is another option. It is based on freeing people from self-destructive thoughts about food with the goal of creating judgment-free eating. When you practice intuitive eating, you learn to identify sensations of hunger, fullness, and satisfaction.
Be Prepared for Setbacks
Life happens! There are holidays, stress, vacation, and any number of obstacles that can get you off track. But, instead of giving up out of frustration, stay focused and continue your journey of weight maintenance. It's how you react to challenges and setbacks that make the difference. It’s important to remind yourself that a brief setback of gaining a few kilos is not the end of the world. Thinking positive will relieve stress and prevent you from throwing in the towel.
Pearl Chemist Group is happy to offer assistance and guidance with weight loss management in Tooting as well as weight management services in Merton.