YoYo Diets Set the Stage for a Metabolic Storm

Weight cycling refers to the process of losing weight, only to gain it back and the repeat cycles of additional weight re-gain that occur afterwards. Numerous health risks are now being linked to weight cycling. This vicious cycle of weight gain, weight loss and weight regain, is not limited to those suffering from obesity. Unfortunately, it is a common consequence for young women who are unhappy with their appearance. It also may be a precursor for weight control problems later in life. Moreover, regaining weight after following fad diets can have a negative mental effect causing the person to become depressed and more discouraged than before. However, weight cycling should not be used as an excuse. Instead, refocus your efforts on making permanent changes to your menu plan.

Avoid Thoughtless Food Habits to Lose Weight

Once an individual loses weight, his or her body tends to reduce the amount of energy expended at rest and while performing daily activities. When trying to lose weight it is equally as import to understand how to avoid weight loss regain, such as:

• how your body fights to get fat back
• why you need to find a diet and stick with it
• reasons why you should not nibble on food
• how to avoid thoughtless food habits
• importance of avoiding the clean plate club

The combination of lower energy expenditure and increased hunger creates a "perfect metabolic storm" to enhance conditions for weight cycling where with weight regain often exceeds the person’s original weight.

Do Not Obsess Over Weight-Loss Timelines

Life would be miserable without food, so quit treating food as your enemy. Changing your outlook as to what is healthy means learning to accept your body. Nourishing your body and eating food provides the fuel for you to get things done and boosts your mental health as well. If you think being healthy and working out are types of punishment, you need to change your outlook. Attaining your goal weight is but one of your rewards for living a healthy lifestyle, no matter how easy or hard your journey seems. Your outlook must include a double dose of patience. If your goal is to lose weight and restore your good health, you cannot have a mindset that views dieting as a quick fix. After all, you are trying to lose weight in a way that will allow you to sustain it later. So, don't become obsessed with dates and timelines but focus your attention on the little accomplishments you make every day.