Reaching and maintaining a healthier weight contributes to your overall health and well being. Losing even a few pounds or preventing further weight gain has health benefits. There are several ways to make changes in your lifestyle that will help move you toward a healthier weight. Here are some tips to get you started.
Start with a plan for lifelong health. Focus on the big picture – achieving overall good health – not just short-term weight loss.
Set healthy, realistic goals. You are more likely to succeed in reaching realistic goals when you make changes step-by-step. Start with one or two specific, small changes at a time. Track your progress by keeping a food and activity log.
Get a personalized eating plan. Go to www.ChooseMyPlate.gov for a plan that will give you the amounts of each food group and need daily. If you have special dietary needs, consult a registered dietitian for a customized plan
Eat at least three meals a day and plan your meals ahead of time. Whether you’re eating at home, packing a lunch or eating out, an overall eating plan for the day will help keep you on track.Balance your plate with a variety of foods. Half your plate should be filled with fruits and vegetables, about one fourth with lean meat, poultry or fish, and one fourth with grains. To round out your meal, add fat-free or low-fat milk, yogurt or cheese.
Start your meal with low calorie foods like fruits, vegetables and salads. These foods are packed with nutrients your body needs.
Focus on food. Pick one place to sit down and eat at home. Eating while doing other things may lead to eating more than you think. Also, switching from a large plate to a smaller one may help you feel satisfied with reduced portions.
Know when you’ve had enough to eat. Quit before you feel full or stuffed. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to get the message that your body is getting foods. When your brain gets this message, you stop feeling hungry. So, fast eaters – slow down and give your brain a chance to get the word.
Get plenty of fiber from fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains. Fiber can help you feel full longer and lower your risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
Watch portion sizes to manage your calorie intake. This is the key to an effective weight management plan. To make sure your portion sizes are “just right,” visit the MyPlate Food Groups Food Galleries at www.choosemyplate.gov/STEPS/howmuchshouldyoueat.html for healthy eating guidelines in household measures.
Snack smart. Include snacks as part of your daily calorie allowance and limit portions to one serving. Plan for nutritious snacks to prevent between-meal hunger. Keep portable, healthy snacks in your desk, backpack or car.
Find your balance between food and physical activity. Regular physical activity is important for your overall health and fitness – plus, it helps control body weight, promotes a feeling of well-being and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
Is it right for you? Make sure your weight management plan is right for you. Does it include:
Foods from all five food groups?
The right number of servings from each group?
Food you will enjoy eating for the rest of your life?
Foods you can buy at the supermarket?
Some of your favorite foods?
Foods that fit your budget and lifestyle?
Regular physical activity or exercise?
If the answer is “yes” to all the questions, your weight management plan is right for you.
Educational programs of the Texas AgriLife Extension Service are open to all people without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners’ Courts of Texas Cooperating.
