Trying To Lose Weight? Facts To Understand About Weight Loss Struggles
Mainstream media is full of advertisements and messages that losing weight should be as simple as popping a pill or following the latest fad diet. But those who are actually struggling to lose weight know that it just isn't that simple. Unfortunately, there are a lot of misconceptions out there about weight loss, the many approaches possible, and the things you need to do to drop excess weight. There is no single magic solution, but there are some things that you need to know. Here are a few key facts about weight loss that you should understand.
Don't Count Your Calories — Maximize Them
One of the biggest mistakes that people make when they're trying to lose weight is focusing on counting calories. While calorie intake IS an important aspect of weight loss and management, you need to focus on those calories in the right way. Just counting your calories isn't going to get the job done. After all, a 200-calorie cupcake is going to affect your body much differently than 200 calories from your favorite vegetables. Instead of seeing calories as though they are all created equal, you need to evaluate your calorie intake based on its nutritional benefit. Fuel your body, don't just feed it.
Increase Your Activity Gradually As You Can Tolerate
When it comes to weight loss, people often say that excess weight results from eating too much and not moving enough. This discounts a lot of people who struggle with weight because of genetics, not just diet or lifestyle. However, moving more WILL help you burn excess fat. Don't try to jump straight into full workouts, though. Especially if you are trying to lose a significant amount of weight, you'll want to make an effort to increase your movement and activity gradually. You don't want to drive your body into additional fat storage mode. Instead, work with a weight-loss professional to build an exercise plan that fits your needs and progresses as your physical abilities progress.
Don't Diet — Make A Lifelong Change
If you have had trouble with making the right food choices over the course of your life, this is the opportunity for you to learn other methods. Talk with a weight-loss specialist about nutritional counseling. The goal of a healthy lifestyle and weight management is to maximize your calorie intake for its nutritional benefit. Mediterranean-style meal plans and similar food choice approaches are great for doing just that. Make a commitment to a lifestyle change in the way that you view and consume food and you'll find success in your overall weight loss efforts.
These are some of the most important things to think about when you're ready to shed those extra pounds. Talk with a weight-loss specialist today for more information.
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