Should You Be on a Diet?
By Genevieve Cunningham
Have you ever considered going on a diet? If you're an American adult, the answer is: Of course you have! Everyone considers a diet from time to time, mostly because we all want to lose weight. And of course, there's the constant media pressure that tells us we're not good enough the way we are. But do you actually need a diet? Or is dieting an outdated concept? The answer is a little complicated. If you're looking to live your best life, take a look at whether you should consider a diet, or whether there's a more effective way to get healthy.
Do You Need to Lose Weight?
Carrying around a few extra pounds in today's world is incredibly common. Most of us would like to lose weight. But it's also important to determine whether you actually need to lose weight or simply want to lose weight. Vanity pounds and true excess weight will be approached differently. Assess your own body weight and health. Determine how much weight you need to lose in order to be healthy, and start with that goal first and foremost.
Is a Diet the Best Choice?
If you've determined that losing a few pounds would be good for your health, it's time to determine whether a diet is the best way to make that happen. Traditionally, we think of dieting as seriously restricting what goes into our mouths. But is that the best way? More often than not, restrictions that are too severe backfire. We end up binge eating our favorites and ruining our progress. Luckily, there's another way -- a way that combines healthy eating with movement for the best results.
How to Lose Weight in a Healthy Way
It's important to note that eating a healthy diet is not wrong. In fact, restricting your calories is not wrong either. It's just important to do it the right way. Think of dieting as a lifestyle change, not a temporary fix. Transform your normal menu into as many healthy meals and foods as you can, and work toward healthy living every day. And then add movement! If you eat a well balanced diet and exercise on a regular basis, you'll be gently leading your body toward better health and the proper weight for long-term health and happiness.
It's definitely important to stay healthy and to keep a body weight that promotes long-term well-being. But that doesn't necessarily mean that a diet is the answer. Do a little research on healthy living, and create a plan that works! With a plan and a little self-discipline, you can live your healthiest life without worrying over diets at all.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Nashua, N.H.