Are You Mentally Prepared to Lose Weight?

03/13/08 Nutrition & Exercise

Do you binge eat? If you find yourself feasting there could be emotional issues at play that could get in the way of your efforts to lose weight.

How much do you want to lose weight? People that engage in weight loss activities for health tend to do better than people who want to lose weight for to look good.

Have you earnestly attempted to lose weight before? People who failed in previous weight loss attempts tend to struggle in future attempts. Consider the barriers that got in the way with previous attempts and work to address them.

How much physical activity can you fit into your schedule each week? If you are not willing to exercise you probably won't lose weight. You will also miss out on other health benefits of exercise.

How many times do you eat fast food each week? Two or more times per week could be canceling out your other healthy activities.

How many servings of fruits and vegetables, excluding potatoes, do you eat daily? If it is less than five, think about how you can add more of these nutritious foods.

Were your parents overweight? If one or more of your parents were overweight you will probably have to work harder to manage your weight. Genes play a large role in our shape and size.

Properly managing weight comes from one's willingness to consistently engage in the right behavior. In some cases it takes extra efforts to overcome genetic or psychological issues. If you were not satisfied with the answers to some of the questions above, look for ways to change the attitudes and behaviors they address. You will be more successful in your efforts to live a healthy life as you make those changes.

Sources:

International Journal of Obesity, March 2004

International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, September 2004