Losing Weight This Year May Be Easier Than You Think

Many of us resolve to lose weight several times a year, but often fall short of meeting our goals, or just plain give up. The good news is that small changes in your lifestyle can help you achieve this goal. The key to losing weight and feeling healthier is taking a new look at your diet and working more physical activity into your life. And, of course, a positive attitude helps, too!

“In order to lose weight, you need to make lifestyle changes,” says Ann Pantazis, director of nutrition services of Reliant Medical Group. “While change is not always easy, people who commit to eating healthier and exercising more reap the benefits when they start to feel and look better.”

Pantazis offers the following tips to people embarking on a weight-loss plan:

1. Set reasonable goals. Goal setting is an important part of trying to change your eating and exercise habits. Each goal represents a stepping stone to your ultimate goal of weight loss. For example, losing one half to two pounds a week is a healthy and safe rate of weight loss for most people.

2. Make healthier food and beverage choices. Include more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fat-free or low-fat milk products. Enjoy calorie-free beverages such as seltzer, water or sugar-free lemonade. 

3. Eat smaller portions. Cut your usual servings in half; portion out snacks instead of eating out of the bag or box.

4. Eat slowly and savor each bite. This change can bring more enjoyment to your eating experience. As an added bonus, eating slowly allows your brain to catch up to your stomach so you eat less.

5. Exercise four to five days a week. If you are just getting started, begin with 5-10 minutes at each session, and work your way up to 30 minutes of moderately intense activity. Remember to talk with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

6. Have a positive attitude! If you stick to a healthy diet and exercise plan, you will succeed in looking and feeling better.

If you’re having trouble sticking to your resolution, remember that weight loss, along with regular exercise, can lower your risk for developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure, according to the National Institute of Health.

Reliant Medical Group is a medical group practice with service sites in Worcester, Spencer, Westboro, Leominster, Milford, Auburn and throughout Central Massachusetts. For more information about Reliant Medical Group, call 1-800-283-2556 or visit www.reliantmedicalgroup.org.