Common Dieting Mistakes: 7 Hints to Help You Avoid Yo-Yo Dieting

by | Jan 7, 2011 | Healthy Eating, Weight Managment Tips, Wellness Tips & Information

Author: Valerie Balandra NP

This scenario is a familiar one to nearly anyone who has tried and failed to lose weight and keep it off: you hear about the latest crash diet or “super-food” that is supposed to help you lose inches off your waistline in just a few short weeks. Determined to drop pounds off your weight and fit into your high school jeans, you purchase all of the suggested products and follow the rules of the diet religiously.

You watch the weight melt away, and you are thrilled with the results – at least, until the diet is over and the pounds start to pile on again. You figure that you have done something wrong, and after a period of self-loathing and guilt, you decide to start again on the next fad diet that promises fast results.

Unfortunately, this scenario is all to common and frequently leads to the unhealthy behavior which is referred to as “yo-yo” dieting. If you are serious about losing weight and keeping it off, the following guidelines can show you how to change your habits and maintain a healthy body weight for life.

1. Lose weight slowly. Set a goal of losing no more than 1 or 2 pounds per week, to give your body time to adjust to the changes you are experiencing.

2. Be wary of diets that drastically restrict your caloric intake. Limiting yourself to just a few food items not only jeopardizes your health, it is a recipe for failure.

3. Make sure that you are getting all of the nutrients you need in your diet. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to give your body the fuel it needs to function properly.

4. Don’t forget to exercise. Although some diet programs promise results without the need for exercise, no weight loss program can truly succeed without regular physical activity.

5. Allow yourself to indulge occasionally. Setting aside one day a week to enjoy your favorite treats will make it easier to maintain a healthy diet.

6. Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps to keep you energized and feeling healthy, and you will be less tempted to grab a sugary soft drink to quench your thirst.

7. Enlist a cheering section. Whether you join a weight loss program or simply get your family in your corner, the support of others can make all the difference if you become discouraged about meeting your weight loss goals.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/supplements-and-vitamins-articles/common-dieting-mistakes-7-hints-to-help-you-avoid-yo-yo-dieting-2751121.html

About the Author

Valerie Balandra ARNP, BC is a nurse practitioner that takes an integrative holistic approach to health management. She graduated from SUNY at Stony Brook with a Masters Degree in Nursing, and is taking courses towards a doctorate degree in Naturopathy.

Visit http://www.HealthRemedies.com to learn more . Enter the discount code ARTICLE to receive 10% off your purchase!

Manifest Excellence, LLC supports people in improving personal wellness by addressing the five key areas that impact health. They combine over 20 years experience in traditional health promotion with a holistic and comprehensive wellness philosophy. This innovative combination creates effective tools and strategies for creating optimal health and wellness.  Visit www.ManifestExcellence.com for more information.

Donna Hamilton, MD, MS, FAAP
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