Monday, October 26, 2009

What's The Best Diet Plan?

My doctor advised me to lose 25 or 30 pounds to help reduce the pain from my sciatica.  I have tried Atkins diet before but was unsuccessful.  What do you think the best diet plan is?   Donna L.

Dear Donna,

If you're looking for a weight loss plan I'd have to say weight watchers is the way to go.
You might also see if you would like planning your own diet using the food guide pyramid at http://www.mypyramid.gov/. This site shows you how many servings from each group you need, based on your height, weight, activity level, and weight loss goals. Then you make your own meal plan to support that.

If you feel you would benefit from ongoing support, consider working with a diet coach.
A coach will work with you weekly on an individual basis to help keep you motivated, update your weight loss plans, and remain accountable.
Weight watchers offers weekly support on a group basis, both in person and online.  It's up to the individual what works best for you.  Some people prefer groups and some like to stay at home!

The very best plan would be altering the eating habits that have lead to your weight gain, instead of going on a set "diet" or meal plan. Slowly work to reduce portion sizes, become more active (like taking a flight of stairs instead of the elevator), choose lower fat foods, drink more water, and eat more fresh fruit and vegetables--especially instead of sweets and snacks.

The weight won't come off at a rate of five pounds a week, but once you reach your goal you'll have healthy new habits and the weight will stay off  for good!

1 comment:

  1. I also enjoy the value of mypyramid.gov. It's great for somebody that wants to learn about proper nutrition. Also, this is the perfect time of year to become more active by raking some leaves!

    ReplyDelete