TAKE IT OFF - KEEP IT OFF

We all know people, ourselves included, who have been dieting for as long as we can remember seeming to no avail.  Over the years we've been inundated with a hopelessness that comes from diet books, media and other places, quoting the statistics that 95% of people who lose weight regain it, and more, within a few months or years.  That figure, interestingly enough, comes from a 1959 study based on only 100 people and today, obesity experts declare it cannot be considered a universal truth.

A more current study by the National Weight Loss Registry in 1994 is more realistic and much more encouraging.  There were 2800 respondents in that study and they have maintained an average 67-pound weight lossfor five years, with up to 14% maintaining a more than 100 pound weight loss.  Now, that's more like it!

It is possible to lose weight and have it never find you again.  While losing weight isn't necessarily easy, it need not be temporary.  There are some things that can be done to maintain a healthy weight once the excess is gone - but, like anything worthwhile, it takes time and discipline.

Keep up the good behaviors

Essentially, people stay slim by maintaining the behaviors that got them there.  They eat healthier foods, exercise, refresh their minds and stay focused.   Keeping the weight off requires as much a mental overhaul as a physical one. 

Often, overweight people are dealing with self-consciousness, poor self-image, insecurities and fear.  It's important to find a place where the problem can be recognized and a decision to make a change is made.  Many find that once the decision is made, there are immediate changes in attitude and determination.   There's a shift in the mood and it seems that suddenly there's more energy and a fresh outlook on life.

Change the mind and the body follows

Once that happens, behaviors can begin to change as well.   Finding a group or a buddy to join on the journey of weight loss is a great way to be accountable and stay focused.  We all need encouragement, and being involved with others who have similar goals goes a long way, creating solid support and friendships. 

While the road to the top isn't always an easy climb - sometimes we slip or even fall - with determination, strong connections and the knowledge that it is not the impossible dream; a person can not only lose weight, but keep it off forever.