It’s the time of year for change. With the new year comes a drive for renewal that seems to touch almost everyone in the form of resolutions, new commitments and a dedication to just get better.
That drive, of course, is often focused on our health, and in particular, our weight. Before you jump on the latest diet fad, though, here are a few tips and ideas we’ve discovered in our years of helping patients find their best bodies.
It’s About Gaining Health, Not Losing Weight
Despite all the focus on losing weight, the truth is that healthy weight loss is a side effect. It’s the result of gaining health – of pursuing a healthy mind and body, and making changes that are sustainable in the long run. To find your best body, you first have to find your best health. The right weight will follow.
The Scale Isn’t The Story
It’s easy to become obsessed with the number on the scale, but it’s only part of the picture. Your weight is just one measure of health, and it’s not an entirely reliable one. The number on your scale can fluctuate based on any number of different factors, and the scale never tells you the difference between fat and muscle, how much water you’re retaining, or whether your changing weight is helping you or hurting you.
You Can’t Do It Without Moving Your Body
Research on people who’ve successfully lost weight has shown that almost no one can successfully sustain weight loss without doing some exercise. Dieting without exercise is a sure ticket to a yo-yo roller coaster of loss and gain that will leave you less healthy and more heavy than ever. You may need to do other things to find your best body, but you can bet that exercise is a prerequisite.
Sometimes, There Are Hidden Roadblocks
Your body is a complicated piece of machinery. Really complicated. And there are times when a simple “eat less, exercise more” prescription just doesn’t do the job. Things like food intolerances and toxicity can affect your metabolism, your energy and your ability to burn fat. Sometimes, it pays to dig deeper into your own biochemistry to make sure you’re not missing a piece of the puzzle.
Too Much Change at Once is A Tough Job
No matter how you choose to find your best health and your best body, it’s going to require change, and change is often a dish best served slowly. Biting off more than you can chew – like trying to have a pristine diet and perfect lifestyle – can be an overwhelming and unsustainable prospect. Try to make small changes you can sustain, and gradually add more over time.
If you need help with your health goals, you can learn more about the StoneTree Sustainable Body Change program here, or call 705-444-5331 to book a complimentary appointment to discover our unique approach to weight loss.