A Little Reminder

Because I don't work full time, I had the opportunity to watch the Today show this morning; there was a segment on studies done regarding weight loss programs and their rate of success. The bottom line is that you lose weight when you take in less calories than you burn, and it doesn't matter which program you choose. The important thing is to pick a program that works for you and you can live with - a lifetime eating plan. Some of us prefer a lower-carbohydrate plan, others like counting calories or watching fat intake, and still others prefer a diet that tells you exactly what to eat on any given day (I hate those the most!!). Weight Watchers does have - and always has had - the highest success rate. This is because it offers several plans to suit individual preferences, but also provides a support group and guidance for changing your diet. Whatever plan you choose, you will be more successful if you have a friend to support you when you are struggling, and that you can support in return. As I mentioned last week, exercise is the key to burning those calories - and along the way, you get the added bonus of increasing your energy, elevating your mood, and becoming leaner - all of which make it easier to stay on your plan. If you find you are not sticking with your program, or not losing weight, then you may need a different one - don't stay on a plan just because it worked for you some time in the past, or all of your friends are doing it, or you heard something advertised. Spend a little time writing down the foods you really enjoy and then find a plan that incorporates those foods - no food plan will work that either won't let you eat the foods you like or has you eat (or drink!) something you think is awful (or disgusting) - this is a sure path to giving up! M.