If you are currently following a weight loss plan, chances are this is not your first diet. In fact, many people find themselves on a weight loss rollercoaster, losing a significant amount of weight and then gaining it all back and then some.You might be pleased to learn that permanent weight loss is not a mirage – it’s actually attainable. There is an organization of people who have proven that weight loss maintenance is possible because
they have done it themselves.
Weight Loss: Maintenance Tips From Successful Losers
The Weight Loss Registry was founded by two researchers, James O. Hill, Ph.D. and Rena Wing, Ph.D., who wanted to investigate and study those individuals who are succeeding at long term weight loss.
The requirements to join the registry are the following: ” Participants must be at least 18 years old ” You must have maintained at least 30 pounds of weight loss for one year or longer The NWCR has over 5,000 participants who fill out detailed questionnaires and annual follow-up surveys that look at the behavior and psychological makeup of those who have been able to sustain their significant weight losses.
Their findings are frequently quoted in the national media on stories about weight loss maintenance. Here are some interesting facts about participants in the registry: ” 80% of the registry’s participants are women and 20% are men ”
The average amount of weight lost by registry participants is 66 lbs. and they have kept it of for 5.5 years. ” 98% of the participants have modified their diet to lose weight ” 94% increased their level of physical activity to lose weight with walking being the most popular form of exercise ” The average registry participant women are 45 years old and weigh 145 lbs, and the average men are 49 years old weighing 190 lbs.
Weight loss maintenance tips
Here are some weight loss maintenance tips: ” Daily exercise is a requirement for maintaining weight loss – Successful losers know that exercise is a crucial part of keeping the weight off, so they don’t skip workouts.”
Keeping a daily food log helps you focus on your goals – When you make the commitment to write down everything you eat, you are more likely to stick to your plan.
It’s more difficult to cheat and eat something that’s going to sabotage your goals if you must then report it on your food log. ” Avoiding crash/fad diets – Fad diets that have you cutting calories or eating odd combinations of foods are not sustainable.
As soon as you stop following them the weight will return.
Healthy Lifestyle to Maintain Healthy Habits
“Look at weight loss maintenance as a lifelong habit – Rather than thinking of a diet as a temporary ‘restriction,’ take the long view and create healthy habits that you’ll follow for life.”
“Have a sense of accountability to maintain healthy habits – Working with a weight loss counselor or coach, or a friend who has successfully lost a significant amount of weight can help you to stay focused on your goals when you feel encouraged and supported.”
Successful, lasting weight loss is definitely possible as long as you make it your goal to commit to your new healthy lifestyle and weight loss habits for life.
