Weight Control
HOME

Weight Control

Diabetes

Nutrition Bytes

Child Health

Obesity

Useful Links

Junk Food

Medical Nutrition Therapy

Table Talk

Newspaper Articles

International Nutrition

Ask Dr. Dorene

Definitions

Link to This Site

Tell Friends and Family

Privacy Policy

5 Common Mistakes Dieters Make

Millions of Americans are dieting to lose weight. Many succeed for a while, then regain the weight, and more. Others simply reach a plateau and that they just can't seem to get beyond.

Two questions I am frequently asked by these disappointed dieters are, 1) Why can't I lose the weight? And 2) Why can't I lose anymore weight?

There may be any number of answers those questions. But for sure, there are some common practices that may undermine the efforts of even the most committed dieter. Here are a few.

  1. Following a diet plan that is so strict you cannot continue on it for any length of time. Popular diets often bring about quick weight loss. Unfortunately, going off the diet usually results in falling back to old ways, including old eating habits. The result, as many have experienced, could be devastating.
  2. Eating larger portions than necessary. The larger the portion, the greater the number of calories consumed. That is why learning portion control is so important.
  3. Eating out too often. Eating out is an important part of the American culture. But, eating out also takes much of the control away from you. When it comes to portions, calorie value, ingredients, and cooking method, the decision is pretty much in the hands of the chef. Of course, you can try to special order, but chances are, you are going to go with the flow.
  4. Giving in to the prodding of co-workers and friends. Office parties and treats from co-workers can challenge even the most committed dieter. Afterall, who can resist those scrumptious desserts and other goodies? Yet, learning to say no is crucial.
  5. Failing to get an adequate amount of exercise. You might think that you would lose weight just by cutting back on how much you eat. However, if you don't start moving, you will continue to store fat. You have to move it to lose it.

If any of the above applies to you, think about what you can do to overcome those mistakes. Sometimes the biggest obstacles to success are really little pebbles, that once recognized, can be easily move out of the way.

To see how you are doing, consider getting a diet checkup today.

Weight Control Topics

Home