IF YOU could choose between a quick short term solution with results that wouldnt last or a long term long lasting solution where the results just kept getting better, which one would you choose?
Well its no contest surly? So why, when it comes to our own bodies, do we take the quick route?
When clients sit down on their first consultation with a mixture of nerves and excitement, one of the first things I mention is that there goal won't be achieved over night, weather it be increasing mobility, decreasing medication, reducing stress level or most commonly losing weight.
Weight loss or fat loss can be achieved quite simple by either decreasing energy in or increasing energy out.
Our bodies work on fuel just like a car needs petrol or a stove needs gas. Our fuel is food.
We need all types of nutrients to enable our bodies to work efficiently, so why when we want to lose weight do we stop eating some of them?
Carbohydrates, fats and proteins are all broken down and used as fuel; they help our body function so we can carry out everyday tasks like seeing, standing, breathing and smiling.
Fad diets like the Atkins, GI, cabbage soup diet (yuk), south beach, baby food and the zone diet are just the tip of the iceberg.
There are plenty more weird and wonderful or should I say bizarre ways to drop a dress size or two. Now I'm not saying you won't lose weight whilst on the diets, it's more a concern of what effects you body has to endure afterwards.
These diets are known as fad for a reason and that is that they are not sustainable.
In realistic terms we have to be honest with ourselves, we may eat out at restaurants or nip to the chip shop on a Friday night, we may even give in to the pudding temptation occasionally, so how on earth is it possible to stick to an eating plan that allows you to only eat once a day? The answer is, we cant.
If youre thinking about dieting or trying to lose weight then do it sensibly and long term. Make better decisions and choices - jacket potato instead of chips, sugar free squash instead of cola.
Its not about starving yourself thin or even scalding yourself when you have had a treat, it is more to do with being sensible, choosing a diet that you can maintain and still enjoy.
So once again the message I am trying to get across is 'everything in moderation'.
Some fad diets may leave you feeling tired with very low energy levels, you may lack concentration or even have bad breath!!
The rapid weight loss that can appear is likely to be water loss and not fat loss, especially in the cases of low carbohydrate diets.
As soon as we finish the diet and go back to our regular eating pattern, the water is replaced and the weight back on.
These are all just examples that some diets can have, so remember if you do want to lose weight or just become healthier, dont starve yourself, seek advice and think long term.
For more help or guidance on making a lifestyle change you can contact me at Lynsey.miles@nbleisuretrust.co.uk or on 02476 400548.
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