Hi All,
Sorry about the gap in the weekly update. Technical difficulties happen sometimes.
To refresh, I’m discussing the Acronym BE SLIM.
B is for breakfast. A nutritionally balanced one. Not Orange juice and a bagel. Avoid fast carbs, and sugar. Make sure you get at least 10 grams of protein.
E is for Exercise. And remember I added another acronym, NEAT, for non exercise activity. Going to the club is fun for some of us. For me, its part of my social life, however as devices like FitBits are showing us, its the exercise you can get into your day, without planning that really adds up. Take the stairs. Park at the back of the parking lot….
Today’s letter S. Today’s topic, Support.
There were reports recently about a weight loss study by John’s Hopkins University that questions the effectiveness of weight loss programs, and in particular anything that is advertized as a diet.
“The report was critical of self-directed weight loss programs, such as Atkins and SlimFast, and Internet-based programs such as The Biggest Loser Club, eDiets and LoseIt! posted minimal to no weight loss in most people.
“People aren’t succeeding doing that. These apps — while very appealing — aren’t very effective,” Hill said.
The study noted that weight-loss programs combined with behavior modification would likely have the best outcome for people trying to lose weight. Highly structured programs with one-on-one counseling sessions to reinforce behavior and make better real-world choices would likely result in better outcomes for people trying to lose weight.” Aurora Sentinel April 13 2015
Is this a secret? No,
Think of all the 12 step programs like Alcoholics Anonymous. They all use support groups, and a coach or guide to guide the journey and hold the person accountable. For many people, one of the great advantages of joining a health club, vs. working out at home, is to be around people who have similar goals. I know some of you reading this have tried diets before and talked a friend or two into dieting with you. It is easier with support.
I am a health coach. It’s not my goal to help people with diets – though there are those out there who want to lose 10 pounds to fit into a particular dress for a particular occasion, but to help people grasp a healthy lifestyle. Take Shape For Life from its inception has been centered on free independent health coaches. As the John’s Hopkins study points out, support like this is probably the most important aspect of a weight loss or health improvement program. As of the first of the year, Weight Watchers has added health coaches to their program. Thanks Weight Watchers, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
The TSFL plan is about creating a healthy lifestyle. This means trading a lot of detrimental habits, for new healthy ones. It’s not easy. It takes time. Coaches like me are here to guide, encourage, support, and teach you through the process. We can’t do it for you. You have to want to change.
But if a person wants to change, we are part of your Support- the “S” in BE SLIM.