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Setting Realistic Goals For Weight Loss

Losing Weight can significantly enhance overall health, improve self-esteem, and boost energy levels. However, the journey to weight loss success is paved with challenges, and one of the most critical steps is setting realistic goals. Realistic weight loss goals are essential for sustainable progress, preventing frustration, and fostering a positive mindset.  Here’s a comprehensive guide to setting achievable weight loss goals, brought to you by the experts at Weight Loss Revolution.

What Are Realistic Weight Loss Goals?

Setting realistic goals is at the top of the list for achieving a healthy weight as it has been shown by research that it really helps to lose weight . Realistic weight loss goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Aiming to lose 1-2 pounds per week is a sustainable and healthy goal. This might seem slow, but it’s a more maintainable pace that reduces the likelihood of regaining weight.

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Why are Realistic Weight Loss Goals Important?

Following are some of the reasons why setting realistic goals are important as explained by our doctors at Weight Loss Revolution;

  • Boosts Motivation: Achieving small goals keeps you motivated and encouraged to continue.
  • Promotes Sustainable Weight Loss: Gradual weight loss is more likely to be permanent.
  • Improves Overall Health: Focuses on lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes.
  • Reduces Frustration: Avoids disappointment and frustration from unmet expectations.

Define Your Motivation

Understanding why you want to lose weight is essential. Whether it’s for health reasons, improving physical appearance, or enhancing quality of life, a clear motivation can help maintain focus and determination in your weight loss journey. While moving towards your goal keep in mind and focus on the progress rather than perfection. Celebrate the small victories to keep you motivated for the bigger goal.

 Realistic Goals For Weight Loss

Consult a Professional

Seek advice from healthcare professionals such as doctors, dietitians, or nutritionists like our experts at Weight Loss Revolution. Everyone is different and loses weight at their own pace therefore in order to get the best and sustainable way to lose weight it is helpful to consult a reputable professional in the field. They can provide personalised recommendations based on your health status, lifestyle, and goals.

SMART Goals

Our experts at Weight Loss Revolution advise to utilise the SMART criteria for setting goals:

  • Specific: Define clear and precise goals. Instead of “lose weight,” aim to “lose 10 pounds in three months.”
  • Measurable: Ensure your goals can be tracked. Regular weigh-ins or body measurements can help monitor progress.
  • Achievable: Set goals that are realistic given your current situation. Consider factors like your starting weight and daily commitments.
  • Relevant: Your goals should align with your overall objectives and lifestyle.
  • Time-bound: Set a timeframe to achieve your goals. This helps in maintaining focus and motivation.

Focus on Health, Not Just Weight

Our motto at Weight Loss Revolution is to ‘Prioritise overall health improvements over mere weight loss’. While losing weight it is important to keep in mind that you are not just burning calories but  are on a journey towards a healthier version of yourself. Focusing on health helps to maintain body positivity and lose weight for the long term. Goals such as “eat five servings of vegetables daily” or “walk 30 minutes every day” can be more beneficial and sustainable.

At Weight Loss Revolution we are all  about setting realistic weight loss goals as a crucial step towards achieving long-term success. By understanding the factors that influence weight loss, setting SMART goals, and adopting healthy lifestyle changes, you can make steady and sustainable progress. Remember, weight loss is a gradual process, and focusing on overall health and well-being will lead to more satisfying and lasting results. 

Bibliography 

  1. Weight loss: 6 strategies for success. (2021, December 7). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss/art-20047752#:~:text=Set%20realistic%20goals&text=Over%20the%20long%20term%2C%20it’s,diet%20and%20regular%20physical%20activity
  2. Mph, K. M. Z. R. L. (2006, January 27). Is your weight loss goal realistic? WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/obesity/features/is-your-weight-loss-goal-realistic 
  3. Setting weight loss goals. (n.d.). LloydsPharmacy Online Doctor UK. https://onlinedoctor.lloydspharmacy.com/uk/lifestyle-advice/setting-weight-loss-goals 
  4. Crystal, M. (2018, May 22). How to Set Realistic Weight Loss Goals with the S.M.A.R.T. Method. Total Wellness & Bariatrics. https://totalwellnessandbariatrics.com/how-to-set-realistic-weight-loss-goals-with-the-s-m-a-r-t-method/ 
  5. Kbragg, & Levey, D. K. (2019, July 18). 5 Rules for setting Realistic monthly Weight-Loss and Fitness Goals. Muscle & Fitness. https://www.muscleandfitness.com/muscle-fitness-hers/hers-nutrition/5-rules-setting-realistic-monthly-weight-loss-and-fitness-goals/ 


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BODY POSITIVITY AND WEIGHT LOSS

The topic of body positivity has gained much importance in recent years. The idea of body positivity suggests that people should have a positive image regarding their body irrespective of  what the society perceives as ideal body shape or size. This idea promotes acceptance and self love, it challenges the unrealistic standards of beauty created by the media. Weight loss is pursued for improving self esteem, health reasons and increasing mobility. But it is seen at times that weight loss is portrayed in a light that it can seem to undermine body positivity. The question now is that can these two ideas coexist? Yes, you lose weight while still remaining body positive by not resorting to unhealthy diets and un realistic approaches to weight loss. Here is how,

Focusing On Health, Not Size

Instead of focusing on achieving a specific body weight and size, divert your attention on attaining a healthy body. One should focus on their well being while taking a nourishing diet and being physically active, this will make you feel good about yourself. By following this approach it will help you feel good about yourself, while practising self care.

Challenging Internal Beliefs

Unlearning the toxic internal beliefs is one of the significant steps for attaining a healthy body image. It should be recognized that beauty and worthiness is in diversity. Channel healthy ideas and remember that your worth is not determined by the number seen on the weight scale. Avoid self depreciation and negative self talk, adopt the ideas of having a healthy body instead of a thinner one.

Setting Realistic Goals 

Set goals that are achievable rather than unrealistic ones. Setting goals that align with health objectives rather than the goals that align with the society’s standards of the perfect body. It will help you focus on maintaining a positive image of yourself. Every little progress should be celebrated like improved stamina, increased strength and better sleep, without just focusing on the pounds of weight you have lost.

Practising Self Compassion

Remember setbacks are natural in a weight loss journey so it is important to maintain a healthy positive mindset. Keep in mind that losing weight is not a linear process, it has its ups and downs. Speak to yourself in a way how you would talk to a loved one, with kindness. Surround yourself with supportive people like friends and family who do not impose unrealistic expectations on you and respect you.

Challenging Media Influences

Being critical of the ideas that perpetuate narrow minded standards of beauty is important as media, magazines and advertisements can often promote unrealistic body image and harmful diet cultures. Seek out diverse representations that promote inclusivity and acceptance of the body. 

It is important to remember that body positivity does not disregard personal goals or health objectives. It is about fostering a positive relationship with your body. Weight loss can be a part of your journey if it aligns with your well being and is practised in a sustainable manner. In short the intersection of body positivity and weight loss is a holistic approach to self care. It prioritises emotional as well as physical well being.

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THE RELATION OF SLEEP DEPRIVATION WITH WEIGHT LOSS

As we know that sleep plays an important role in the well being of the body, mood and brain performance. According to studies done it has come to attention that sleep and weight loss are connected with each other. In America it is observed that with the decrease in the duration of sleep the body mass index of the people has also increased which has become one of the factors that lead to obesity. It has also been observed by research that lack of sleep can also result in many metabolic disorders and some life threatening diseases as well.

Effect on  Appetite 

It has been seen that people that have had less hours of sleep have increased appetite. The scientific reasoning behind it is that the neurotransmitters i.e. Ghrelin that stimulates hunger, becomes active which leads to high calorie intake. Studies have also shown that people who were deprived of sleep had higher craving, bigger portion sizes and had more fat consumption. A sleep deprived person consumes 385 more calories than a person with a healthy  sleep schedule.

Dysregulation of Metabolism 

Sleep also affects the chemical reactions going on in the body known as the metabolism. During sleep a slow metabolism is promoted. It has come to attention that sleep deprivation can lead to dysregulation of metabolism. Keeping yourself awake for extra hours disrupts the body’s circadian rhythm, which might lead to gain in weight. Studies have also revealed that people who lack sleep are more susceptible to disorders like type 2 diabetes. 

Physical & Mental Aspects

Among the sleep deprivation symptoms are laziness and lack of energy that can result in moody, angry agitated behaviour. The sleep deprived brain has dull activity in the frontal lobe of the brain that is used to make decisions making your judgments clouded. While a  person with a healthy sleep cycle would be able to resist the cravings of junk food easily, a person whose brain is tired will have less willpower to say ‘No’ to their junk food cravings.

Tips for Better Sleep

Here are some tricks that can help you achieve a sound sleep;

  • Turn off your electronic devices i.e. laptops and mobile.
  • Meditate, read or take a nice bath before sleep.
  • Avoid caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee and sodas before sleep. 
  • Melatonin, a natural sleep hormone, is stimulated in the dark so it is advised to turn off the lights at bed time.
  • Exercising regularly can improve the quality of sleep.
  • Stop eating right before going to bed. 
  • Maintain a sleep schedule.

Besides weight loss, it is important to note that sleep plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy body. Not having the appropriate duration of sleep can lead to depression and a wide range of medical conditions like obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, diabetes and high blood pressure. A person who does not prioritise sleep is putting his health at various risks. 

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HEALTHY EATING HABITS FOR WEIGHT LOSS

It is observed in people that in order to lose weight at a fast pace people opt for diets that are unhealthy and while can help you lose weight drastically it is not beneficial in the long run. Your diet plays a very important role in weight loss, only exercise will not make you achieve your desired goals. Gaining weight is much easier than losing it therefore it is advised to be mindful while choosing what food to consume. So, let’s get started and learn how to do,

Watch Calories You Are Drinking 

As drinks in the market can have a lot of sugar added to them they could be high in calories. Even if you switch to a diet and use carbonated beverages or drinks containing zero calories they still have some amount of artificial sweetener. Therefore it is better to go for the natural zero calorie drink, known as water. Which boosts the metabolism and ultimately helps in weight loss. To not make it boring and encourage yourself to drink water add slices of citrus fruits like lemon, orange, berries or mint leaves.

Eat More Vegetables

Fibre and water are present in high quantities in fruits and vegetables.You can start your day with a plate of fruits in addition to your normal breakfast. This will keep you full for the whole day. Besides weight loss plant foods have countless other benefits as well. It has been proven through research that people who have a plant based diet have lower weight. Eating plants can make you feel fuller and you do not consume as much calories.

Control Your Portion SIze 

It is important to control the portion size. For managing the calories you consume one should consider controlling  the portion size by age. You can get to know how to eat in a healthy way by consulting a doctor specialising in the field. Look at the packaging of the packaged food and see the size of the serving mentioned on the packet. Another way to manage your portion size one can make versions of your favourite foods in a smaller portion. 

Avoid Late Night Snacking 

Snacking on food that has sugar in high amounts can cause interruption in your sleep. Also mindlessly snacking at night while watching T.V. before bed can lead to gain in your weight due to increase in the intake of calories. If the time of when you eat something can cause weight gain if unclear it has other negative impacts on the body like indigestion and sleep problems. Therefore, it is advised to consume overly processed food and food with high sugar content in moderation.

Practise Mindful Eating

Mindful eating and weight loss go hand in hand. It involves being aware of the signals of your body, assessing the level of your hunger, knowing about what you are eating, eating it slowly without any distractions and savouring every bite. This not only helps you have a better eating experience but also improves digestion and prevents overeating .

Drink More Water 

Do you know that by drinking an extra cup of  water you can lose weight that is equal to walking about 2 miles? Drinking 1 percent  more water can make you consume less calories and also suppresses hunger. Consuming water boosts the metabolism, detoxifies the body, burns fats and reduces the liquid calorie intake as it has zero calories. 

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The Psychology of Weight Loss: Understanding the Mental Aspects of Weight Management

Weight loss is more than just about eating less and exercising more. It is also a psychological journey that requires motivation, self-control, and a healthy relationship with food. Understanding the psychology of weight loss is essential for developing effective strategies for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Here are some of the key psychological factors that influence weight loss:

Motivation:

Motivation is the driving force behind any behavior change. Losing weight requires a strong commitment to making lifestyle changes and sticking with them over time. People who are successful at losing weight are typically those who are motivated by a desire to improve their health, appearance, or overall well-being.

Self-control:

Self-control is the ability to resist temptation and make healthy choices. It is important for resisting unhealthy foods, controlling portion sizes, and sticking to an exercise routine. People with strong self-control are better able to delay gratification and make choices that are in their long-term best interests.

Emotional eating:

Emotional eating is the tendency to use food to cope with stress, boredom, or other negative emotions. This can lead to overeating and weight gain. People who engage in emotional eating often have difficulty identifying and managing their emotions in healthy ways.

Body image:

Body image is the way you perceive your body. Having a negative body image can make it difficult to lose weight. It can also lead to unhealthy eating habits and disordered eating behaviors. People with a positive body image are more likely to accept their bodies for who they are and to make healthy choices for their bodies.

Self-esteem:

Self-esteem is your sense of worth. Having low self-esteem can make it difficult to believe in yourself and your ability to lose weight. It can also lead to self-sabotaging behaviors. People with high self-esteem are more likely to believe in themselves and their ability to achieve their goals.

In addition to these factors, other psychological factors, such as stress, social support, and perfectionism, can also play a role in weight loss.

Addressing the psychological aspects of weight loss is essential for achieving long-term success. Here are some tips for addressing the psychological challenges of weight loss:

Set realistic goals.

Setting unrealistic goals can lead to disappointment and frustration. Realistic goals are small, achievable, and specific. For example, instead of setting a goal of losing 50 pounds in a month, set a goal of losing 1 pound per week.

Challenge negative thoughts.

Negative thoughts can sabotage your weight loss efforts. 

Challenge negative thoughts by replacing them with positive, realistic thoughts. For example, instead of thinking “I’m going to fail at this,” think “I’m taking this one step at a time.”

Develop healthy coping mechanisms.

If you use food to cope with stress, boredom, or other negative emotions, develop healthy coping mechanisms instead. Exercise, relaxation techniques, and spending time with loved ones are all healthy ways to cope with difficult emotions.

Practice self-compassion.

Be kind to yourself and accept that there will be setbacks along the way. Everyone makes mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them and keep moving forward.

Seek professional support.

If you are struggling to manage the psychological challenges of weight loss on your own, seek professional support. A therapist or counselor can help you to develop coping skills, address underlying psychological issues, and make sustainable lifestyle changes.

Remember, losing weight is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs along the 

way. The important thing is to stay focused on your goals and to keep moving forward. By understanding the psychology of weight loss and developing healthy coping mechanisms, you can increase your chances of achieving long-term success.