diet

by Crystal Guillory-Gould

So Heather announced she was starting this website about the weight loss and maintenance journey and I volunteered to write. I was given the deadline and opened the document and was stricken with the dreaded “blank-page” syndrome writers get from time to time.

I do want to know why Dr. Oz hasn’t talked about this on his show?

All of a sudden I realized this is what happens when a person is told by their doctor that they need to lose weight, but they aren’t advised how. Sometimes the person has an idea to partake in the cabbage (or any flavor) soup so the pounds can come off quickly.

More often than not, the pounds return, which leads to another insane cycle of crash dieting. Eventually the endless loop may cause health issues as well as a severe case of discouragement.

I imagine that scenario sounds all too familiar to some of you reading this. To be honest, that was familiar to me since I was in that cycle for so many years. I can’t tell you how many forty-day diets were started and ended with abandon after Easter. Yes and pounds did return causing me discouragement and wondering if things will change.

So, one day I decided to upgrade my life, and I’d like to share 5 tips with you that helped me along my weight loss journey.

1) Getting active

I advise people to start by walking, even if it is for 10 minutes at the very beginning it is the start of a journey. As time goes by increase the time walking by a few minutes and improving one’s speed. Little things like taking the stairs and getting the farthest parking space (except at night-use caution) can assist in the journey as well. Eventually I joined a local gym and was instructed in the machines such as elliptical and weights which aid in the process. To those unable to join there are exercise videos that are available online and at one’s public library.

2) Watching portions

I remember going out someplace and was served a huge plate of grilled chicken, so I thought I given the family portion by mistake. Imagine my surprise when I was informed that was the individual portion! (In case you are wondering, I didn’t eat the whole thing but had a small part with the rest going into a container for a future meal or two.) So I can’t say this enough, getting measuring cups and spoons make for a great investment. Oh yes, the kitchen scale is a great thing to have too.

As you progress on the journey you discover how little it takes to be satisfied.

3) Tracking the food

Writing down your food and portions is important so you don’t lie to yourself about what was consumed or how much. I am old school so I use pen and paper, but to those who like to use online resources there are websites with that kind of tool. Such websites offer support so you won’t feel alone on your journey.

4) Getting a balanced diet

Yes, I realize that this is a catch phrase, but it’s true. When a person acquires the recommended servings of lean protein, dairy, fruits and vegetables each day they are satisfied longer. When a person is satisfied longer, there isn’t the need to eat constantly. Granted there are other reasons why a person eats, which brings us to another point…

5) Cutting out the stress eating

Eating out of stress was a major factor in my life, which led to my weight gain. As I embarked on this journey, I began to examine if I was really hungry or if it was stress, and if it was stress, I would need to find another method of dealing with it. Sometimes getting away from that problem with a little walk (if you are able) can help one’s mood and prevent the stress eating.

As I stated before, these aren’t new ideas but they’re the things that have helped me. I have kept this beast away for nearly two years and I want to keep it away. While some days are easier than others this journey is worth it. I am worth it!

Don’t stop believing!