Autoimmune Disease Management 101: Fighting Back

The Best Way To Try A New Weight Loss Tactic

Diets are frustrating even to the most patient of people on the most gentle weight loss programs. The sense of restriction and the imposed routine (if you have to have certain foods, do certain exercises, and so on) are among the top factors that make people drop their diets. But that doesn't mean the strategy was bad or that you're never going to succeed. You have to remember that different strategies work for different people, so it's a matter of trying out different ways to lose weight until you find the one that works for you.

Cautious Approach

No matter what seems good to you -- medications, exercise, eliminating certain foods, and so on -- do your research. Seek out support groups, seek out books and websites, and always be on the lookout for the moderate voices for each tactic. There is a difference between following the rules of the weight loss strategy and becoming so scared of failing that you restrict all parts of your life (this may sound outlandish, but it's an attitude that certain adherents of different strategies seem to take).

When you decide to embark on a new weight loss project, do it slowly. Find the basic approach and stick to that. For example, if you're trying a weight loss supplement for which the company says you need to drink a reasonable amount of water but don't need to avoid particular food groups, don't follow the blogger who says you absolutely need to avoid all carbs because they'll retain water and mess up the effects of the supplement.

Month by Month

If you can, give the strategy a month's testing time. This is long enough for you to see at least minimal results and to decide if it's something you want to continue. It may be helpful to continue to take that path in month-long increments, just so that if you hit a rough patch, you can tell yourself you only have to finish out the month and can stop then if you want. You'll know you've found a good weight loss strategy when you find yourself continually using the strategy month after month.

Medical Supervision

If you're using medications, some medical supervision is always a good idea. You want to be sure your vital signs stay good while you're using the medication. Cross-reactions with other supplements or other medications are also something to check for.

Different strategies work for different people, as noted. You'll find something that works for you. For more information, contact a company like AdvoCare.