Break the yo-yo dieting habit

If you have lost weight and put it back on, or have started a diet only to give it up after a few days – you are not alone!

Everyone feels good when they decide; “That’s it, I’ve had enough - I’m going on a diet”. Then after a day or two the enthusiasm fades and old habits creep back. Or else you do succeed, lose loads of weight and relax, and gradually it returns. The mistake is in wanting a quick solution.

What you need

• Patience.
• Be kind to yourself.
• Devise your own healthy eating plan that suits you.
• Drop the vanity approach - lose weight for yourself to make yourself healthier, happier and more energetic.

Having worked to help people lose weight for over eight years, I always feel uneasy when people lose weight very quickly, because invariably they regain it.

But those who change their routines and take an intelligent, logical approach lose weight gradually and then keep it off. Anita lost her husband and her weight ballooned to 120kg, size 32.

She was desperate for a quick fix but I suggested she join a local health club and start with swimming. She was very nervous, as she had not exercised for 20 years.

Later, I signed her up for yoga classes though there was initial nervousness. Now she goes to yoga classes thrice a week and swims afterwards. She is a new person - she is happy, has grown her hair, and has regained her sense of style.

Most importantly she has developed her eating routine and is now size 12.

Exercise Hint

Lunchtime power walks: If you are an office worker with little time to take exercise, then lunchtime power walking is a great way to exercise regularly. At this time of the year, spend 20 minutes of your lunch break walking at a steady pace around your building.

Try to involve a co-worker to keep yourself motivated. Do not forget to talk to your doctor before exerting yourself if you are overweight.

Slimming Lifestyle

Stop noshing and start chatting: Do you find that you eat too much when you go to a party? If so, try concentrating on socialising than eating. If you find it difficult to talk without holding a drink or food, try holding a glass of water. It does not get much healthier than that!

Letters

I have Type 2 diabetes and although it is under control, my weight is not! I am struck by the fact that a lot of low-fat food is bulked up with sugar. What do you suggest? - Meg

My Healthy Eating Guide includes carbohydrates at every meal, so as long as you eat regular meals it should suit you. Mail for a free copy to guidegn146@naturalhealthlines.com.

Some low fat brands do have too much sugar, so just keep checking the labels to keep an eye on sugar content.

Salt in food is another thing to watch out for, but a low fat diet should be naturally low in salt, as this is what is added to fatty food to make it more palatable.