Sometimes it might seem impossible to lose those last unwanted kilos. But when it comes to losing weight and keeping it off, experts believe that your mind and body should be in sync. In other words, you need to think yourself slim too.
Because the truth is, cutting any emotional ties you have with food is half the battle when you’re trying to lose weight. In fact, changing your mindset can make the scale your friend. Nutritionist, Rachael Anne Hill shares her top tips on how an attitude adjustment can help you lose weight.
Change your thoughts
What you’re thinking
I deserve to eat/drink this food. I’m stressed and tired.
Using food or drink to cheer you up rarely works and is a sure-fire way to put on weight. Find alternative ways of treating yourself, such as a long bath or a new lipstick. In fact studies show that a new red lippie is the key to boosting your mood.
ALSO SEE: How to master red lips every time
New thought
What I really deserve is a slim, fit and healthy body I can be proud of.
What you’re thinking
If I ban the high-kilojoule foods, I’ll get the body of my dreams.
The human mind is a very complex thing. The minute you tell yourself that you’re not allowed to eat a certain food, it becomes even more desirable.
New thought
Everything is ok to eat – but in moderation. I don’t need to binge to enjoy my food. I can eat slowly and relish every bite.
What you’re thinking
I’ll never be thin – years of dieting has damaged my metabolic rate.
There’s no doubt that your metabolic rate goes down when you diet. It’s the body’s way of fighting back when it thinks it may be facing starvation, but we’ve found it recovers after a few weeks of the diet ending. So there’s hope!
New thought
My metabolic rate is functioning normally and I can make it burn an extra 800 to 1000 kilojoules with every 30 minutes of exercise I do. It’s time to lace up those walking shoes and head outdoors.
ALSO SEE: Your easy walking plan for toning up and getting fit
What you’re thinking
Everyone in my family is overweight, so why try to change my weight?
Your genes play a significant role in determining your natural weight range, but just because your relatives are overweight doesn’t mean you have to be. Eat healthy foods, smaller portions, increase your activity levels and exercise more to overcome it.
New thought
I can’t alter my DNA, but I can make sure I am the best I can be.
What you’re thinking
It’s a waste to throw this away, so I’ll eat it.
It goes against the grain to waste food, but remember – if you put it in the bin, it’s gone for good; but put it in your mouth and it may hang around on your hips, thighs or stomach for years to come!
New thought
If I’m not hungry I simply won’t eat any more. I can always save leftovers for later when I’m truly hungry.
DISCLAIMER: Before starting any diet, you should speak to your doctor. You must not rely on the information on this website/newsletter as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.
