Millions of Americans struggle with obesity and weight loss each day.
Stunningly, nearly 40% of all American adults are considered obese by the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Moreover, nearly one out of every five teenagers are also considered obese.
Unfortunately, the nation’s efforts to raise awareness and combat obesity have largely failed.
In spite of this failure, now is not the time to give up the fight against obesity. The stakes are too high; obesity contributes to cancer, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, heart disease, and more.
To fight obesity, consider various treatments including exercise, weight loss supplements, dietary changes, and finding the right support system.
Weight Loss Isn’t The Only Way to Measure Progress
The conventional wisdom is that losing pounds and kilos defines success. Popular television shows like “The Biggest Loser” reinforce this belief by shelling out large cash prizes to the contestants that lose the most weight.
Little known to most Americans is the fact that many contestants have struggled after the hit show ended, in some cases gaining over one hundred pounds back.
While weight loss is an important long-term metric, stepping on the scale every day can be mentally draining and cause lapses in diet and exercise regimens.
It is more effective to set weekly or biweekly weigh-ins that minimize the impact of normal weight fluctuations that occur on a day-to-day basis.
What are Other Ways to Define Success?
There are dozens of measurements that can be taken to determine whether a weight loss program is successful.
Remember, the ultimate goal is to become healthier. With this in mind, an effective weight loss program should yield improvements in body mass index (BMI), cholesterol levels, and a reduced heart rate.
There are some people that will lose inches around the waist but will not lose any pounds as fat turns to muscle.
Some indicators of success cannot be measured. For example, a healthy diet and exercise program may result in more energy and a happier outlook on life.
Long-Term Weight Loss Cannot be Sustained Without a Healthy Diet
Losing weight is a lifestyle choice that cannot be accomplished without a multi-pronged approach. While an exercise program will surely help, it should be accompanied by a healthy diet.
Incorporate a balanced diet that allows for the correct proportion of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
At the same time, minimize consumption of sugar and salt. Eating a balanced diet with less sugar and salt will undoubtedly improve health and contribute to weight loss.
Can Weight Loss Supplements be Part of a Healthy Diet?
Unfortunately, there is not a blanket answer to this question. There are many different types of weight loss supplements, therefore, there cannot be a consensus on whether they are effective or safe to use.
In fact, most weight loss supplements have mixed reviews. While a product may work for some, it may be ineffective for others.
There are many products on the market that are safe to consume and do not have any side effects.
Ultimately, each individual product needs to be evaluated on its own merits.
So to answer the question, it is possible that weight loss supplements can be incorporated into a weight loss program.
At the end of the day, success will be attained by making a broad lifestyle change that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise.
