Watch Your Portions
One of the most effective treatments for obesity is to simply eat less. Following fad diets might seem like a good idea, but the best method is to start by eating the same way you normally do, but eat less of everything.
Portion control really is the key here. Gradually lowering your caloric intake is better than starting a strict new diet overnight and shocking your body. And by making the change gradually, the hunger pangs and cravings will be less severe than if you decided to cut your intake in half immediately.
Stick with Healthy Options
Eating healthier foods goes hand-in-hand with eating less. Once you’ve started to acclimate to a lower caloric intake, you can start to substitute some of your favorite junk foods with healthier options.
Consider reducing or cutting out foods that are high in saturated fat, such as meat and dairy, and focus on a diet that mainly consists of fruits and vegetables. Not only are the nutrients easier to digest, but you’ll get the added benefit of fiber, which can help reduce cholesterol as well as help with digestive regularity.
Get, and Stay, Active
A third option when it comes to treatments for obesity is increased activity. An overweight or obese person is recommended to get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity to help avoid additional weight gain. Some people require 300 minutes or more per week of physical activity to achieve significant weight loss.
Exercise doesn’t always have to look like exercise. It can be as simple as parking at the back of a parking lot when you go shopping and forcing yourself to walk the extra distance. It could also be as simple as taking a walk during your lunch break or trying to complete household chores faster. Whatever will get your metabolism pumping will help put you on the track to weight loss.
Stick with It!
Some people have a harder time than others when it comes to losing weight. For people in this category, your primary care physician may be able to help by prescribing a weight loss medication, or even suggesting surgery if absolutely necessary. Alternatively, you could meet with a dietician who, in addition to helping you formulate a food and exercise plan, might be able to recommend a dietary or weight loss supplement to help you along your way.