For most people, the instinctive approach to obesity is to diet; to control one’s weight through modified caloric intake using any number of diets that promise immediate results.
What many don’t realize is that obesity often results from a combination of factors, eating habits being just one of them.
Exercise, one’s mental state, genetics, and lifestyle all affect your health and ability to lose weight.
The most effective approach to combating obesity is to adopt wellness-focused actions which help you address the physical and mental stressors that contribute to obesity. Research studies support this assertion: One study revealed that 80% to 95% of subjects who tried dieting ended up putting the weight back on. In most cases, a more holistic approach is needed.
Mental Well-Being
For many obese people, lingering mental problems often lie at the root of a chronic weight problem. Depression can have a lot to do with eating disorders that make it impossible to get your weight under control.
Have you tried a number of dietary approaches or spoken with a physician? Try talking with a mental health counselor. They can help you get to the root of psychological problems that are undermining your weight loss efforts.
The Right Regimen
Exercise is always an important component of a weight-loss program. Yet, exercise can be a problem for people with chronic obesity problems for a number of reasons. Fighting obesity is a daily commitment that requires regular physical activity. Still, getting enough of it becomes a challenge for people who lead busy professional and family lives. They have responsibilities that have to be met. Exercising in the morning before work may not be practical if you have kids to get ready for school. If you often work late or have to make sure your children get their homework done every night, working out in the evening may also be difficult.
Remember that the kind of exercise you do can also make a difference. For example, attending a spinning class probably isn’t going to work in the long term if you have knee or hip problems. In addition, doing yoga doesn’t make much sense if you really hate it. Many people struggle with weight problems because they can’t find an exercise routine they like or are willing to commit to.
Spend some time thinking about the type of exercise you want to do. For some people, working out alone is preferable. While others need the motivation and encouragement they can get from being part of an exercise group. Even joining an intramural sports team could be an option. Physical problems may limit the type of exercises you can do. So, select a program that won’t cause pain or worsen an existing physical ailment. Beware of fad workout programs that don’t have a body of evidence supporting their ability to help you reach your goal.
On the contrary, consider setting up a home gym with exercise equipment that makes sense for you. Often, free weights, kettlebells, and resistance bands are as effective as an expensive workout machine. Remember, the most successful workout routine will be the one you enjoy.
Diets
Maintaining a balanced and healthy diet is also an important part of a sustainable weight loss program. Obese individuals are often tempted to try the latest fad diet. Therefore, they may be looking for that “magic bullet” that’ll provide a simple and convenient solution. Remember everything you’ve been told about emphasizing fruit and vegetables, whole grains and lean, healthy meats. Eating the right foods every day is the only way to sustain weight loss and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
A Balanced Approach
Fighting obesity requires a balanced approach that involves eating right and exercise that’s right for your circumstances. Don’t underestimate the importance of finding a routine you enjoy.
Consequently, this will minimize the likelihood you’ll give up and return to old habits. If you’re suffering from depression or some other mental issue, talking with a counselor can help you identify negative behaviors that contribute to your condition.
If you are looking to embark on your journey towards healthy weight loss and would like to find out if you are a candidate for our therapy we would like to meet you. To get to the root cause of pain and discomfort and discover the healthiest YOU, schedule an initial consultation, including a comprehensive evaluation and first treatment.
