How Much Weight Can You Really Lose?

If you’re like many, you’ve been bombarded with messages ranging from “lose a pound a day” to “are you genetically programmed to gain”.

Most reputable sources say losing a pound or two per week is reasonable and sustainable.  But, nearly all agree, that it is not going to be easy.  More and more research is showing that once we’ve been overweight for a while, our body adjusts to it as its new norm.  The body’s feedback mechanisms become wired to aggressively defend the new weight.  The hunger, the slowing metabolism, & the accumulation of fat are all results of the hormones in our body trying to maintain the higher weight. We are essentially fighting ourselves.

Studies from reputable labs from across the globe agree on the complexity of the problem.  However, no one is saying that you should give up.  There are health benefits from even small weight losses of 5 to 10 pounds.  Slow, steady weight loss has been gaining traction as the way to more permanent weight loss exercise program, which means it’s going to be a long journey.

While this isn’t most pleasant news, it’s important to know the challenges you face because the people who seem to keep their weight off are those who know that the battle never ends.  Those, who are successful in maintaining their weight, continue to exercise, track what they eat, and remain vigilant.  These people know that if they are not careful, they can gain it back.

What almost all professionals in the field agree upon is that getting support significantly increases your chances of seeing lasting change.  They also agree that those who seem to keep it off  change how they eat, behave, and are resilient when faced with challenges.  In the end, you may be left thinking: “What should I do?” First, make a commitment to a new habit and lifestyle.  Second, set a goal.  Know that you won’t get there overnight, but know that unless you do something, the weight is not going to come off by itself.  Third, get some help and be ready to pick yourself back up over and over again when you slip.  Finally, find a new way to cope.  Using food to control your moods becomes a very slippery slope.

If any of this seems overwhelming to you, know that programs like Anvanca® are here to help.   You don’t have to try to do this on your own.