subject: Not Weight Loss, Good Health! [print this page] Weight gain is such a common concern for women (and men too) that some people are willing to resort to lap bands and experimental medications to reduce their weight when there are some simple things to do every day that can make sure a person is healthy, not just under their average weight category.
Reduce your stress! Sounds impossible, but it's really important. Quit sweating the little things; if you can't change it, don't worry about it. Scheduling time for hobbies, parties, or just down time is important for mental wellbeing. A party night, a movie at home, a dinner out on the town where you don't need to cook or clean or do dishes, whatever helps you relax.
Something else that helps healthy living is making sure to drink enough water. About one ounce of water for every pound you weigh is a pretty easy thing to follow. If you're trying to lose weight, drink an extra ounce per pound you want to lose. Carry a water bottle and fill it often, rather than stocking up on those energy drinks. Speaking of which, energy drinks have a lot of useless calories and while they do improve productivity, they don't help you lose weight.
While we are on that subject, picking the food you put in your body is key to keeping weight off. Everyone hates the word "diet" and frankly, it's misused anyways. "Go on a diet" is a false idea, it's not what people do. "Diet" simply refers simply to what you eat and drink. So, rather than going on a diet, people should CHANGE their diet. We all have the foods we love; candy, chocolate cakes, microwave foods, and there's no reason to quit eating any of those. Just eat less. "Low fat" foods aren't any better than regular microwave foods, and they don't even taste as good. So, don't go on a diet, change your diet! Some good suggestions are fresh fruits from the grocery store, popcorn with just a little salt and butter, or popcorn with garlic or cinnamon on it, nuts, and then some dark chocolate for the sweet tooth.
Other things include riding a bike to work, getting involved in a community sports team, or taking a dog for a run, not just a walk, are all fun ways to work out, but not always available. Sometimes, making a weekly trip to the gym is a better. Biggest thing about losing weight, it's not about the weight: it's about being healthy. Stay healthy, and weight loss will come with it!
