Embarking on a journey towards weight loss often involves a combination of reducing calorie intake and increasing physical activity. Yet, despite these efforts, many individuals find themselves disheartened by a lack of significant progress. Here’s a look at some reasons why weight loss might seem impossible.
Manage your expectations
Weight loss is a personal journey and everyone loses weight at their own pace. It would be a mistake to compare yourself to your best friend or an online influencer. Gender, age, genetics, metabolism and many other factors can all play a role. Successful long-term weight loss can take up to weeks or even months, once you consistently stick to these changes to your lifestyle.
Start slow, go steady
Many people begin their weight loss journey with a fierce determination, only to lose motivation quickly because they can’t keep up with the lifestyle changes. The key is setting realistic, achievable goals that you can stick with long-term.
New to exercise? Begin with low-intensity workouts a couple of times a week, gradually increasing frequency and intensity as your fitness improves. The same goes for dieting. Reduce portion sizes and calorie intake progressively. Small, sustainable changes lead to lasting results.
It’s not just about willpower
While dieting and exercise are proven to work, it isn’t a one-size-fits all weight-loss solution because it’s easier said than done. Sheer willpower to exercise or subdue your urges to eat isn’t enough for many of us.
Finding the right support
Consider professional guidance if you’ve struggled to lose weight on your own. A healthcare professional can create personalised diet and exercise plans, offer lifestyle coaching for sustainable changes, and prescribe medication in specific cases. For those needing a jumpstart, minimally invasive options like gastric balloons or endoscopic procedures may be suitable. Bariatric surgery becomes a viable option for individuals with severe or morbid obesity, especially when accompanied by metabolic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or fatty liver disease.
Need help with your weight loss journey? Find professional guidance from our Bariatric Specialist, Dr Shanker Pasupathy, by booking a consultation conveniently via our Virtual Patient Companion.