Crash diets rarely work. This is because people often get into them with unrealistic expectations. And once the initial excitement wears off, it’s easy to lose resolve and succumb to temptation. The result is that the lost pounds come back with a vengeance. If you are really intent on losing weight, these are some important dos and don’ts to follow: Do’s Be realistic Accept that there are no ‘easy’ ways to lose weight. If you are earnest about losing weight, you’ll have to work at it. It’s important that you set realistic goals and go about meeting them with a combination of modification in your diet and exercise. Consult a doctor or nutritionist It’s always good to undertake any weight-loss plan under medical supervision. Your doctor can advise you on the best ways to lose weight without harming yourself. You could even consult a dietician or weight loss specialist to chart out an effective weight-loss plan for you to follow. Eat right The right diet is the key to maintaining healthy weight. Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet. They are packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Besides, they are high in water and fiber, which means that you satisfy hunger without loading yourself with calories. Reduce the total amount of fat in your food. Go in for healthy sources of fat such as nuts, avocados, fish, and healthy cooking oils such as canola, peanut or sesame. Also, choose foods that are roasted, steamed or boiled rather than fried. Give up junk food, a major source of unnecessary calories. Eating smaller meals frequently can help you go through the day without feeling hungry. Exercise
Exercise is important to help you convert unwanted flab into muscle. Aerobics involves cardiovascular activity that will help you lose weight. Brisk walking, jogging and swimming are other good forms of exercise. You can combine these with yoga to help you calm down and combat overeating resulting from stress. Yoga is also good for toning your body and improving flexibility. Remain active You can make small choices that will help you to lead a more active life. For instance, you can avoid the lift and climb the stairs. Or walk down to run an errand instead of driving down. Enjoy weekends outdoors rather than by watching TV. The options are endless. Don’ts Don’t try diet pills Diet pills don’t generally help in long term weight loss and could even end up harming you. Don’t deprive yourself Don’t deny yourself everything that you like to eat. This will only lead to increased craving and prevent you from sticking to your diet. A moderate approach, where you allow yourself an occasional treat, is much more effective in the long run. Don’t snack carelessly All the precautions you take during meals can be ruined by irresponsible snacking. To avoid this, plan fixed times for snacking. Eating in front of the TV or in the company of friends is particularly bad if you are trying to lose weight, as you are least likely to pay attention to what or how much you eat. Don’t give in to peer pressure Your friends and colleagues may tempt to give in to that glass of wine, or lemon cake, or any junk food they partake of in office or at parties. It may be difficult to say no all the time, but don’t give in!
