Many Americans struggle with weight loss, and many companies sell diet and weight loss supplements. However, long-term weight loss is not a quick fix. If you want to learn more, check out these four tips for losing weight.
1. Change Your Diet
Start by changing your diet. Cut back on calories based on your needs. In general, men need more calories than women because they tend to have larger frames. However, if you're particularly active, you may also need more calories. However, if you live a mostly sedentary lifestyle, too many calories can quickly turn into excess fat.
Besides calories, consider other factors like:
- Various fat levels
- Sodium levels
- Sugar levels
- Simple carbohydrates
Ideally, you want to eat lots of fruits and veggies and minimal salt, sugar, and simple carbohydrates. In addition, make sure you cut back on unhealthy beverages like soda and alcohol, and increase your intake of water.
2. Get More Active
If you aren't very active, it's time to get started. The more you move, the more calories your body burns, which helps you lose weight. In addition, some exercises benefit other parts of your body. For example, weight-bearing exercises like running help strengthen bones. In addition, since it's an aerobic exercise, it boosts cardiovascular health.
3. Visit Your Doctor
Make sure to visit your doctor before you start any new exercise regimen to ensure you are healthy enough to do so. Your doctor will help create a workout plan that will slowly and safely boost your health.
Your doctor can also help identify any underlying causes for your excess weight. Some patients may gain weight because of:
- Hypothyroidism
- Depression
- Menopause
- Cirrhosis
4. Consider Surgical Options
If you have a lot of excess weight, surgical options may help. Some patients get a gastric bypass. During this process, the surgeon detaches most of the stomach from the digestive system. This makes it hard to overeat because you have such a small area in which to hold food.
During a sleeve gastrectomy, the surgeon doesn't remove as much of the stomach, but they leave it about the size of a small banana. This also makes it harder to overeat, which helps with weight loss. However, the results aren't as dramatic as those of a gastric bypass.
If you're struggling with weight loss, talk with your doctor. They can help you create a good routine that includes healthy foods and exercise. If you would like to know more about how to achieve weight loss, contact a doctor today.
