Results over time are often disappointing after a draconian diet. Learn how to lose weight safely and effectively.

The obsession with thinness

The social pressure to be thin has never been stronger. Paradoxically, the obesity rate in North America continues to rise for both the paediatric and adult population. How can this be? The answer to this question is most likely a very complex one—but might part of it lie within this search for easy options that characterizes our era? There is reason to wonder why.

Everyone knows someone who is imprisoned in an ideal image that he/she is unable to reach. Too many people are ready to inflict the worst punishment on their bodies in order to have a figure similar to the ones seen in magazines. Fashion diktats are sometimes merciless and harmful, particularly for young minds that are less practised in separating facts from fiction. However, the frenzied quest to be thin can affect anyone regardless of gender, age, and of the situation.

The appeal of drastic diets

It is very easy to succumb to the charms of numerous miracle diets promising quick results without effort. Sometimes added to this is the craze for overly intensive exercise programs, various types of supplementation products, the use of medication, not to mention inappropriate use of substances known for their so-called “positive” effect on one’s figure (cigarettes, psychostimulants, other drugs, etc.). These are some of the rather questionable strategies that have been seen.

It is generally known in the medical community that drastic diets are most often ineffective, even dangerous over time. When deprived, the body calls upon compensatory mechanisms, which explains in part why weight is nearly always later regained. Some individuals end up yo-yo dieting (deprivation, significant weight gain, and so on) and remain perplexed as to why their attempt has failed.

The real winning strategies

A number of causes could be at the root of weight gain:

• a lack of exercise
• poor diet
• taking certain drugs
• pregnancy
• stress
• a lack of sleep
• psychological or emotional difficulties, and
• depression

In the case of weight gain, it is preferable to focus on the cause rather than on the number of pounds put on. You can try all the diets in the world, but you are unlikely to reach your healthy weight objective if you do not address the root of the problem.

Oftentimes, when a person successfully loses weight over time, it is usually due to a combination of factors and not just one. The best way is to choose a healthy lifestyle (sleep hygiene, physical exercise plan, balanced diet, better stress management, etc.).

Here are some additional tips:

• Follow Canada Food Guide recommendations.
• Commit to an exercise program that you enjoy and that suits your lifestyle.
• Eliminate foods from your diet that you know are harmful or fattening.
• Opt for healthy foods (fruit, vegetables, fish, legumes, etc.).
• Eat more often with smaller portions.
• Weigh yourself regularly.
• Take advantage of the sound advice of a nutrition specialist.

Whatever your strategies are, focus on the long-term instead of quick and easy options. Remain constant and be proud of your efforts.

Remember that your pharmacist is always there to help you and to answer your questions concerning any health issues!