SPECIAL REPORT Weight loss that lasts

When it comes to losing weight and keeping it off, restrictive fad diets rarely result in sustained weight loss. According to a University of California Los Angeles review of 31 weight loss studies, 83 per cent of people who were studied for at least two years had gained back more weight than they had lost. In fact, several of the studies indicated that dieting was a consistent predictor of future weight gain! The authors concluded that “most study participants would have been better off not going on a diet at all.”

Since each and every one of us is unique, a one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss is seldom an effective long-term solution. A holistic naturopathic approach to shedding kilos and then maintaining a healthy body weight is always tailored to the individual. This includes assessing medical history, as well as identifying and addressing any underlying health conditions that may be hindering weight loss. Common considerations include metabolic dysfunctions, digestive issues and, of course, diet and lifestyle.

The key to lasting weight loss is to find healthy and enjoyable ways to reach your optimal weight and sustain it. These practical tips will help you to create sustainable habits to ensure reaching and maintaining a healthy weight becomes part of your lifestyle.

According to a University of California Los Angeles review of 31 weight loss studies, 83 per cent of people who were studied for at least two years had gained back more weight than they had lost.

Just eat “real” food

There’s no way around it. The food you eat every day is essential to both losing weight and sustaining that weight loss. Eating a balanced diet that’s sustainable in the long term holds the key to breaking the cycle of yoyo dieting and creating lasting change.

Rather than counting kilojoules or macros, focus