The President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition reports that less than five percent of adults in the US participate in the recommended 30 minutes of physical activity each day. The PCFSN also reports that while about 45 million Americans attempt to diet each year, weight loss and keeping that weight off can be extremely challenging.

We understand that changing your entire lifestyle is difficult, which is why Medical Metabolic Specialists is dedicated to helping patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight and healthy lifestyle. However, we also understand that old habits die-hard and that life happens. While we’re always here to help, lifestyle choices can ultimately only be controlled by you. To help you stay healthy, the PCFSN complied a list of common pitfalls and ways to combat them.

1. Make sure to set attainable goals. 1-2 pounds per week is both healthy and realistic. Decreasing consumption of fats, sugars and salt along with at least 30 minutes of exercise is a great place to start.
   
   
2. Cut down or cut out alcohol. Though maybe not as obvious as other foods, alcohol packs a lot of calories and provides almost no nutritional value. It can simultaneously interrupt your sleeping patterns, which slows your metabolism.
   
   
3. Steer clear of “fad diets.” Instead, discuss healthy and scientifically accurate plans with MMS that are specifically modified for your body and goals.
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4. Do not be afraid to try new things! Explore the different cardio class options at your gym such as Spinning, kickboxing, Zumba and more. Everyone is different, so be sure to take advantage of the many workout options.
   
   

To help stick to your new lifestyle, consider these extra tips: plan your meals and schedule in time for exercise every day, do not skip meals, continue to be active even after you begin to start losing weight and most importantly – never give up!
Remember, losing weight and keeping it off is a commitment to a full change in lifestyle. Contact Medical Metabolic Specialists for tips to avoid weight gain and to begin your healthy journey towards a healthier lifestyle!

The majority of us would agree that as a society we consume too much food, too much sugar and processed foods and just too much in general. TIME magazine writer, Ted Spiker, eloquently notes that the diet dilemma facing our nation “has everything to do with food. And nothing to do with food.”
What exactly does he mean by this? Weight loss and dieting have everything to do with adjusting our mindsets so that healthy life choices feel good rather than feeling like punishment. The following three mindset shifts should help you get started: