Only seven weeks until July begins; the start of the second half of the year! It is a great time to check in with yourself and any health goals that you made for yourself at the beginning of the year. Given the current obesity rate at close to 40% for adults (https://laurazervos.com/childhood-overweight-and-obesity/), it is no surprise that almost half of my clients fall into the category of weight management.
Common characteristics
There are many factors that prompt individuals to begin weight management counseling. Some people start the process after a checkup with their general practitioner. Feeling like you may have put on a few pounds is one matter, you may be able to change a few eating patterns and get back on track.
However, learning that your BMI falls in the range of overweight or obesity is an eye-opener. Also, routine laboratory results can reveal that your Blood Glucose level is in the pre-diabetic range or you have hyperlipidemia. You may also learn that you have borderline hypertension; in these instances, it is best to get professional help.
These clients are ready to make the change and tend to be highly motivated and compliant. If lowering your BMI can prevent a lifetime of medication or insulin injections, isn’t that enough motivation? Whether they are on a keto, Mediterranean, or plant-based pattern; successful clients have the following in common:
Successful Outcomes
- During the initial interview they provide full disclosure; meaning they are honest in their self-reporting
- Acknowledge that no one behavior or food is responsible for their circumstances, but rather a pattern of behaviors and choices that have lead them to their present situation.
- Log their food, every bite, every time, every day, no exceptions! Clients are surprised to learn that some of the foods that they perceived as “healthy” were high in fat, sugar, or sodium.
- Approach their new way of eating as the new normal, or as a lifestyle and not a set of restrictions and taboos.
- Understand that if they make a poor choice, there will be an opportunity to do the next right thing at the next meal, and it doesn’t have to be a full day of poor choices.
- Daily or frequent weigh-ins. There is much controversy on this practice, but it is all about the approach. When you have 20 or more pounds to lose, regular weigh-ins will help you realize that your weight can and will fluctuate from day to day; but overall you should see a downward trend.
- As they approach their plan as a “lifestyle,” there is not a significant change in eating patterns on weekends.
- They view their exercise regimen as routine as brushing their teeth.
These are the approaches that most of the successful clients have in common. It is gratifying to help others achieve their goals and celebrate their successes along with them. I work with several clients that have lost 20 pounds since the beginning of the year, right on target for the recommended rate of weight loss of one half to one and a half pounds per week. I am happy not only for what they have lost but the healthy new outlook they have gained!
Are you on track to achieve your health goals as we approach the second half of the year? Contact me today to get on the Path to Wellness!
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