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The main problem with weight-loss programs or diets is
that they are generally viewed as time-limited. That is, people only
desire to commit to them for a limited period of time. This is the
wrong way to approach the problem, as once they stop dieting (or rather
their positive change in life-style) they will regain weight as they
return to bad eating and habits.
The appeal of this 'bad' or mis-informed approach to
weight management is that one only needs to lose weight for a short
period before returning to unhealthy habits. The inevitable outcome of
this approach is yo-yo dieting, or the abadonment of weight-loss
strategies as 'useless'.
It is clear that what is necessary is not a diet
mentality but rather a life-style change mentality. That is, ideally
the commitment is to a life-time of healthy eating and exercise versus
short-bursts of extreme weight-loss or exercise. The goal should be
weight-loss until the ideal weight is achieved, followed by long-term
weight-maintance.
However, if you are just starting dieting, set
short-term realistic goals and expect that the process is a slow one of
discovering how to start eating and exercising in a healthy way for the
long-term.
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