Obesity: It's Not Your Fault, It’s Your Responsibility
Did you know that nearly 30% of Canadians aged 18 and older are considered obese?
It’s no secret that modern society can make it difficult to prioritize our health and wellness. With many fast food restaurants that offer little to no healthy options, office jobs that contribute to a sedentary lifestyle and, of course, health conditions that can affect weight gain and maintenance, it’s no wonder why many Canadians are having trouble managing their weight and overall health.
Whether you’ve succumbed to the effects of our modern lifestyle or suffer from a health condition that makes maintaining a healthy weight difficult, obesity isn’t always your fault.
But, it is your responsibility.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of prioritizing your health and the best ways to combat and overcome obesity - once and for all.
The Importance of Prioritizing Your Health
If you don’t prioritize your health, who will?
Certain lifestyle changes that set you up for success when it comes to healthy living can better help you to make your health and wellness a top priority.
With a few simple adjustments and lifestyle changes, you can experience:
Weight loss and the maintenance of a healthy weight
Better sleep patterns and higher energy levels
Fewer feelings of stress and anxiety
Living a healthy lifestyle can also help to reduce your risk of developing certain conditions and diseases, from certain cancers to heart disease and stroke. Not only will you increase your chances of living a longer life, but a healthier and happier one at that.
The Best Ways to Overcome Obesity
Whether you are obese, gaining weight or at risk of obsesity, there are certain lifestyle changes that you can make and healthy habits to implement that can help you to maintain a healthy weight, long-term.
Eat a Healthy and Well-Balanced Diet
Nourishing your body with healthy food can help you to maintain a healthy weight, in more ways than one.
For starters, eating a well-balanced diet can help to ensure that your body receives all of the vitamins and nutrients needed to function properly, resulting in higher levels of energy, better sleep patterns, improved digestion, and more. The healthier your diet, the more likely you are to stay fuller for longer, reducing cravings for sweets, salty snacks and other junk foods.
Not only will you be less tempted to opt for less healthy options, but you’ll be nourishing your body with whole foods that are naturally lower in calories, sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats. With this approach to healthy eating, you’re more likely to stay within a calorie deficit and achieve a healthy weight.
To determine what a healthy diet looks like for you, we recommend following the Canada Food Guide when getting started. This guide can give you an understanding of what the standard healthy diet will look like. You may also want to consult an expert, such as your doctor, a dietitian, nutritionist, or weight loss experts.
Drink More Water
Do you struggle to drink enough water each day?
The best first step that you can take toward lasting weight loss and better overall health is drinking more water.
Craving juice or a pop? Drink water.
Feeling snackish? Drink water.
Going for a walk? Drink water.
You should aim to drink a minimum of 8-10 glasses of water a day, if not an entire gallon! The more hydrated you are, the better your body can digest, detox and metabolize. Not to mention that you will likely be less hungry throughout the day.
Enjoy Regular Exercise and Move Your Body Daily
No matter where you are in your health and wellness journey, you should always aim to move your body every day. Whether you choose to workout at the gym, go for a bike ride or take a walk around the block, moving your body can help to strengthen muscles and burn calories.
Regular exercise can also benefit your mental and emotional health. During exercise, endorphins are released that can help you to feel good, inside and out!
When exercising as part of a weight loss journey, it is recommended that you engage in physical activity for a minimum of 150 minutes a week. This exercise can be done on your own or with guidance of a professional, based on what is best for your individual health.
Get Enough Sleep Every Night
Did you know that getting enough sleep can contribute to your weight loss efforts?
Irregular sleep patterns can have a negative impact on the balance of your hormones. When hormones are imbalanced, it’s more likely that you will eat unhealthy foods and can even have an impact on how body fat is lost.
Lack of sleep can also have an effect on insulin resistance, glucose intolerance and your level of both stress and energy.
To help ensure that you get enough sleep each night, there are a few changes that you can make to create the perfect bedtime routine and sleep environment, such as:
Preparing for rest at least one hour prior to bedtime
Incorporating healthy habits before bed, such as washing your face and brushing teeth
Use a fan or sound machine to create white noise, or play soothing music
Engage in a relaxing activity, such as meditation or reading
Wear comfortable sleep clothes and use comfortable bedding
Regulate the temperature within your bedroom and install blackout lights
Stay off of technology at least 30 minutes before going to sleep
With a number of changes and introduction of healthy habits, you can help to improve your sleep patterns for weight loss.
Join a Weight Loss Program
With help from a weight loss program, you don’t ever have to feel alone. Throughout your program, you will be provided with guidance, knowledge and support to help you maximize your weight loss results. This approach can help you to not only achieve your goals, but also keep the weight off for good.
Many weight loss programs can differ based on the approach taken and services provided. It’s important that you take the time to perform research, explore testimonials and reviews, and even book a consultation to learn more about the program.
Often, a multi-faceted approach that is not only monitored by a team of professionals, but also allows you to work toward your goals while surrounded by like-minded individuals who are also on a weight loss journey, will result in success.
Speak with Your Doctor
Before starting any weight loss journey, it is highly recommended that you first speak with your doctor. This can provide your doctor with the opportunity to perform a physical, order tests and create a baseline for your health.
They may also make lifestyle recommendations for you to aid in weight loss, or refer you to a specialist if needed.
Contact Coaching & Medicine Today
Is it time to begin your weight loss journey? Take the first step toward a happier and healthier lifestyle with help from the experts at Coaching & Medicine. Our team of weight loss specialists can walk you through the options available and work closely with you to find the best solution for your lifestyle.
For more information, contact us today or take a look at the other articles in our blog!
