The weight loss industry is a multi-billion dollar machine and many of us believe that weight loss is the pinnacle of health. We know it contributes to body image, and unrealistic weight goals.
There are many reasons why you may not be ready to pursue weight loss. Dieting and intentional weight loss put stress on the body. You have to be prepared to make this kind of change, and a chronic focus on weight loss through restrictions and extreme diets can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health.
Alyssa Palladino, RD “Weight loss is often not the right goal. Yes, but this is not always the case, especially when weight loss goals are pursued through unhealthy methods and restrictive diets that can actually worsen health outcomes. “
In fact, taking a break from your weight loss goals can give you the rest you need and may actually improve your long-term success. Men who took had greater success in achieving their weight loss goals.
Elyse Krawtz, RDN, CSOWM, LD Let’s go into more detail on this topic. “Intentional diet interruptions can directly combat the unsustainable ‘all or nothing’ mentality and promote sustainable weight management because they give you a taste of what life will really be like after weight loss. is a strategic and important part of Learn how to maintain weight so you can essentially know how to maintain weight after weight loss. ”
As you can see, weight loss is not always a healthy goal. This depends on what stage of life you are in and what your body needs at that time. Here are some examples of when it’s better to focus on weight maintenance rather than weight loss.
When you work to heal your relationship with food
Weight loss may need to be taken off the table in order to have a better relationship with food.
“Rather than focusing on weight loss, we recommend focusing on health-promoting behaviors, such as adding more vegetables to your diet and replacing sugary drinks with water or sugar-free,” says Paladino. For example, you can change your diet, or incorporate more movement during the day, etc. These are the behaviors that most people seek when trying to lose weight, regardless of the actual impact they have on their weight. It is associated with improved health outcomes. Moreover, while behavior is actually within our control, scales are often not.”
during the holiday season
“When you’re on vacation, it’s better to focus on maintaining your weight rather than losing it. With more special meals and social gatherings, trying to stick to a reduced-calorie plan leads to more stress. Some may decline invitations to avoid being tempted to eat foods that are not in their plans. You may end up overeating because of the feeling.” Kim Krup, RDN He tells me.
Instead, focus on filling up with lots of veggie, protein options, and enjoy your favorite seasonal foods in moderation.
times of stress
Sharon Puello, MA, RD, CDN, CDCES She explains how high-stress seasons can make weight loss overwhelming. Behaviors that promote weight loss, such as cutting calories and increasing exercise, can actually lead to increased levels, reducing stress and counterproductive your weight management efforts. “
Instead, adopt a stress management routine, work on the quality of your diet, and provide enough nutrients to help your body cope with the physical symptoms of stress, while maintaining your weight until your stress levels become more manageable. We recommend that you provide it.
when sick
You shouldn’t focus on intentional weight loss if you’re already sick. Focus on resting, recovering and eating to stay healthy before considering intentional weight loss.
Excessive weight loss due to illness can be detrimental to your health. The body begins to burn muscle and protein stores, which can cause wasting.
Because you want to – no reason needed!
There are many valid reasons not to pursue weight loss, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s okay if it doesn’t fit neatly in one of these boxes. Choosing not to pursue weight loss is a personal choice and you can decide if it’s right for you.
