We all want to live fulfilled, healthy lives, but how can we be sure that we’re on the right track to doing so? With so many diet, exercise, and medication plans out there claiming to be the best, is there any way we can make smart decisions about what works in weight loss?
Yup.
A couple weeks ago, Dr. Erin LeBlanc, an investigator for Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, did a study on the most successful weight loss programs. She found that “behaviorally based weight loss programs are generally effective for weight loss.”
What does that mean? It means the best weight loss programs push people to change their behaviors bring back the best results—with participants losing an average of about 6.6 pounds more during their first year than those who try to lose weight without such programs.
Are you involved in such a program? Here are a few good things to put on your checklist as you choose a path for your weight loss journey:
- Group learning. Getting together with others to learn about how to lose weight and live healthily builds accountability. You’ll discover new ideas and have opportunities to ask questions.
- One-on-one counseling. Learning with a group has its broad advantages, but getting the advice of a doctor, trainer, and/or specialist will help you develop a weight loss plan specific to your body and needs.
- Structure. A great weight loss plan without consistent follow-through won’t do any good! Find a program that keeps you on schedule with your exercise and check-ups; you’ll find yourself building constructive habits as you become healthier and happier!
What are you looking for in a weight loss plan? Is your current program helping you in these ways? Let us know!