by Sandra Parker

Created on: August 17, 2009

Americans are heavy. Study after study proves it. The good news is that a clear majority of us know it and at least 65% of us have taken steps try to lose ten pounds or more. The problem is that most of us failed to either meet that goal, or keep it off for any significant period of time.

For many of us, weight loss is a never-ending roller coaster of lose weight, regain it back, make healthy choices, fall of the wagon. Let's face it, who wouldn't want to eat a Big Mac over Brussels sprouts or a slice of chocolate birthday cake before celery sticks. And besides, when you any of us have time to cook healthy anyway? All too often, we find ourselves losing weight and then slowly regaining it all back as we lose our resolve. Luckily, there are some tried and true strategies out there that if you employ them, along with a sensible eating plan, will help you lose weight and keep it off.

Exercise

Exercise is the number one way to help you get the weight off and keep it off. 80% of the U.S. population who attempted to lose weight in 2004 decided to keep it simple, watched what they ate, and exercised at home, but only 20% of them felt that they were very or extremely successful. Studies have shown that regular exercise in a gym setting was the most efficient and effective way to incorporate exercise into a weight loss program.

Keep a diary

You know that journaling will help you keep track of what you eat and stick to your plan, which is why Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, and all the others promote it. But did you know that journaling also helps you stay focused on your goals? Did you know that you can also pinpoint triggers that cause you to overeat so that you can correct them? Writing everything down helps you visualize what and how much you're eating, and why.

Drink water

Your body is made up of 90% water and we are not doing enough to keep that in balance. When your cells are deprived of water, they shut down, slowing your metabolism and prevent you from losing weight. Water is necessary to your weight loss initiative, but also to your overall health. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.

Get plenty of rest

In a study in Canada, 323 men and 417 women were polled about their sleeping habits. One staggering statistic stood out. Those men and women who got 7-8 hours of sleep per night were significantly leaner than those who got less. Leptin, a hormone that controls hunger is reduced

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>