There are several reasons for wanting to lose weight: to manage a health issue or prevent the onset of chronic diseases, to feel more energetic and fully experience life, to reach new heights in sports, and so on. And losing weight is not difficult. There are thousands of weight loss products and companies that guarantee results... So, what's the catch? The long-term effects!
Too often, the drastic methods proposed by weight loss products, services, and other means prove to be a failure in the long run and leave lasting scars. Not to mention the risk of nutritional deficiencies that can lead to other health problems. Indeed, while it is possible to take an unorthodox approach to weight loss, you will find that the method recommended by a nutritionist, based on scientific literature, will prove its effectiveness over time.
Here are 3 tips to recognize a solution that will be both effective and sustainable, so that you only have to lose that weight once and never worry about it again.
1. Respect for the body's minimum energy needs
This is known as the basal metabolic rate. The body is a wonderfully well-oiled machine, and when it senses that it is being deprived of fuel, it protects itself. A restrictive diet of less than '1000 calories per day' has the effect of mobilizing muscle mass as an energy source long before it touches the adipose tissue. Not to mention the bundle of frustrations it brings and its impacts on mental health...
2. Preservation of dietary balance
The principle of variety in nutrition is omnipresent... And there's a reason for that! Each food group provides different nutrients, and even within food groups, it is recommended to vary your choices. So, there is no point in eliminating them (hello, 4P diet!), or relying on just one (hello, Hollywood pineapple diet). After all, what comes out of Hollywood is rarely applicable in real life...
3. Gradual change of lifestyle habits
Old habits die hard. If the goal is to succeed in weight loss and maintain the achievements, it is important to build solid habits. Replacing old habits is necessary because they are what led to weight gain in the first place. There will certainly be an adjustment period, but with good support and tools, you can do it.
If you're curious, reach out to us to know more about the different approaches and form your own opinion! For everyone else, let yourself be guided by one of our nutritionists without delay.
