With Easter just a few weekend away, this is a perfect amount of time to lose a noticeable amount of weight.
Whilst it’s tempting to try a quick fix, it’s essential to recognise that successful weight loss is not just about shedding pounds rapidly but rather adopting sustainable, healthy habits.
Sustainable Weight Loss Requires Healthy Habits:
Weight loss isn’t a destination; it’s a journey that involves amending your lifestyle. Fad diets and quick fixes may offer short-term results, but these rarely lead to sustained weight loss. To not only lose weight but also keep it off it is better to focus on adopting healthy habits that can be maintained over time.
Why 7 Weeks is the Perfect Timeframe:
Seven weeks provides an optimal period to instil new habits. Research suggests that it takes approximately 21 days to form a habit, and a 7-week timeframe allows for the consolidation and reinforcement of these behaviours. This allows you time for you to adapt your behaviour by making small, sustainable changes to your daily habits rather than setting big audacious goals.
7 weeks is also long enough for you to make mistakes, learn, adapt and go again.
By committing to change for this period, you can set the foundation for lasting habits that contribute to overall well-being.
The Habits You Need to Adopt:
- Plan Your Meals: By thinking ahead you are setting yourself up for success. It will stop you skipping breakfast, grabbing unhealthy lunches, and dialling up a takeaway when you get home in the evening. Of course you will be eating out and entertaining at home, but you can plan around this, balancing out these indulgences with healthy eating.
- Regular Movement: Incorporate movement into your routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. If you prefer to exercise alone think about thinks like brisk walking, jogging, or cycling. If you like group activity then check out your local gym and see what they offer.
- Hydration: Stay adequately hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day. Sometimes, the body can mistake thirst for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking.
- Balanced Nutrition: As you plan your meal, think about the nutritional value of what you eat. Focus on nutrient-dense foods in your diet, such as fruit, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit the intake of processed and sugary foods.
- Adequate Sleep: Great sleep hygiene is a crucial to weight loss. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Lack of sleep can disrupt hormones related to hunger and satiety, potentially leading to weight gain.
- Seeking Professional Help: A medical weight loss plan can be an effective part of resetting your habits and losing weight. Weight loss medication can help you retrain your appetite and adjust your diet. Our Doctors can give you personalised help and advice based on your unique needs and goals.
As you embark on your weight loss journey leading up to Easter, remember that it’s not just about the number on the scale but about building a foundation of healthy habits. By committing to positive changes for seven weeks and incorporating sustainable practices into your daily life, you’re not only working towards shedding a stone but investing in a healthier and happier future. Don’t hesitate to seek professional help to guide you on this transformative path to success.