Are you trying to lose weight? Do you feel like you would benefit from more information and support during the weight loss process? Did you know that your physiotherapist can help with this?
Starting the Weight Loss Journey
According to Statistics Canada, in 2014 61.8% of men (8.2 million) and 46.2% of women (6.1 million) were at higher risk of having an issue with their health due to excess weight. Being overweight can increase the chances of developing osteoarthritis. Have you heard the expression “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”? It is better to lose weight before it starts negatively impacting your health rather than after, but it is never too late. Why don’t you start today!
Losing Weight The Right Way
The best way to lose weight is through a combination of diet and exercise. At its foundation, weight loss happens when the energy out is greater than the energy in. This means that you need to increase your energy expenditure (burning calories through physical activity) and decrease your energy intake (consuming less calories through changes in your diet). Any modifications need to be permanent changes, so make sure that you choose sustainable alternatives that work well for you.
Tips To Get You Started
Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Only change one thing at a time. This way, there aren’t too many things changed at once and we can pin point the cause if a change isn’t well tolerated. For example, start taking the stairs or parking your car further away from your destination so that you walk more. Make this change a part of your daily routine, and then add something else.
- Find alternative snacking solutions. If you really like something crunchy while you watch TV, try sugar snap peas or air-popped popcorn instead of chips or microwave popcorn.
- Stay hydrated. Often thirst can be mistaken for hunger. Whenever you feel hungry, drink a glass of water and wait to see if the hunger decreases.
- Move within your pain limits. If the only exercise you are able to do without pain is walking, then start with walking. Never force yourself to do anything that causes pain. If you find something that is challenging, that’s ok because you are working on something that your body is not use to.
If you feel like you would benefit from having a more individualized action plan for weight loss or have trouble getting through certain movements, make an appointment with a physiotherapist today. They will work with you to develop specific strategies that fit with your needs and lifestyle.
