The Harsh Reality of Losing Weight
By Genevieve Cunningham
Losing weight is a hot topic. With the number of people who are overweight in America, it’s no wonder that it’s such a big deal. Most of us want or need to lose at least a few pounds. The problem? Losing weight is hard. Really hard. People and companies who sell fitness products want you to believe that it’s easy, but it’s not. But … that doesn’t mean that it’s not worth it. Take a look at these three harsh realities of losing weight. Once you know what you’re up against, you can work through it and meet your fitness goals at last.
Yes, That Bite Counts
Sometimes when I encounter people trying to lose weight, I hear something along the lines of, “Well, it’s fine. This one bite won’t hurt.” That always makes me cringe a little on the inside. The truth is that one bite really will make a difference in caloric intake. While the sentiment is nice, the reality is that one bite of cookie dough or potatoes or some other food may actually take you a hundred calories over your goal (depending on the food). And if you do that multiple times a day, you may be going several hundred over your maximum. In theory, that one bite won’t hurt ONE TIME a month or every several months; but when it’s done often, it absolutely matters in your weight loss quest.
Without Exercise, You’re Going to be Soft
You can lose weight without exercising, but it might not be the kind of weight loss that you’re looking for. When you lose weight, your fat cells are emptied and shrink. This makes you look and feel smaller. But, if you’re not building and strengthening the muscle underneath, you won’t have that hardbody look. You’ll be thin, but not strong. You’ll be smaller, but not defined. If you want that long, lean, strong look, exercise should definitely be a part of the process.
It Takes a Long Time
Whether it’s five pounds or 50 pounds, it will inevitably take much longer to lose it than you would prefer. Yes, there are exceptions, but for the majority a little patience will go a long way. Remember that it took months or even years to pack the pounds on, so it may take just as long to shed them. The key? Patience, patience, patience. Consistency is key, so don’t give up when you plateau or when it gets tough. Just push through, and the results will be waiting for you.
The real truth is that losing weight is hard. When you see advertisements that promise quick and easy weight loss, don’t believe it. Put in the work and you’ll be pleased with the outcome at the end. It may be hard, but it will definitely be worth it.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.