Trying to lose weight because of a medical condition? Consider visiting a dietitian in the Nutrition Clinic at University Health Services (UHS). UHS has a Weight Management Program that is specifically designed to help students who need to lose weight due to health needs. So far, students who have enrolled in the program find it rewarding.
Losing weight takes time, so it’s normal to question your ability to continue to make positive change. The following strategies will help increase your chances of successful weight loss.
- Find your inner motivation: find the “thing” that will give you the burning drive to stick to your weight-loss plan
- Set realistic goals: make small changes every day that will lead to big results in the long run.
- Remember your priorities: set priorities that support a healthy lifestyle and that promote lasting change.
- Focus on progress, not perfection: see every snack and every meal as a new opportunity to make a healthy choice.
- Celebrate achievement: recognize and be proud of your progress by using mini rewards. For example, buy yourself fitness gear; go to a sporting event, concert or movie with friends when you consistently eat 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily for a month.
- Patience: remember, evidence shows that people who lose weight gradually and steadily (about 1 to 2 pounds per week) are more successful at keeping weight off(1).
(1) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cdc.gov/healthyweight/losing_weight/index.html