Tyranny of the weighing scales

A dieter is naturally attracted to the weighing scales. It’s natural to find out how much weight you are losing from time to time. But, if it becomes an obsession it could be detrimental to your weight loss efforts. Those wanting to lose weight have been known to get on to the scales every now and then. It won’t help to see that there has been no change.  Instead, make it a habit to check your weight every few days only.

The body takes time to adjust to changes. At first the scales will not register any change. But as you intensify your efforts and persist with them, it will begin to show on the weighing scales.

Persistence is the key to success and more so when you are trying to lose weight. It is indeed disheartening to know that you are not meeting your targets in spite of everything. But remember that losing weight is not a race. You may go ahead two steps but may also fall back a step or tow the next week. The important thing is to persist with your routine and not give up or give in to cravings.

That’s why losing weight is best done gradually. Then the  disappointment at not shedding enough weight will be less. Target to lose 2-3 pounds a month and then think about losing more eventually. There’s nothing better than a balanced diet with regular exercise for it to all fall into place. Very often muscle loss is mistaken for fat loss. Take care to see that it’s the fat that’s getting burnt up by carefully balancing your calorific intake with exercise.

Nutrition is key factor in weight loss. You need to be eating right day after day. So to track your intake prepare a daily diet chart. You need to eat meals that are rich in grains, lean red meat, fish, poultry, vegetables, fruits, nuts and olive oil. Between meals eat healthy snacks to keep the hunger pangs in check and not indulge in over eating. Also, drink plenty of water and healthy fruit juices.

Keeping yourself motivated right through your weight loss program is also very important. Relieve the monotony by exchanging notes with others trying to lose weight and reading about weight loss and good nutrition. Knowing more about what you put into your body and how it receives it will keep you on track. As you learn more the more interesting it will become.