There is no question that each and every one of us is different, and our approach to weight loss is no exception. Success with one weight loss program will be variable from one person to the next, depending on how well it is geared towards that person"s strengths, weaknesses, and the areas where that person needs the most support. Some people need help in gaining a better understanding of what healthy food choices are; many need a re-education on portion control (as our toxic society oversizes portions everywhere we look, making it harder to know what an actual portion size should be). Some individuals prefer to design their own weight loss diet, whereas others will excel with a diet plan that is handed to them, and which they simply have to follow without thinking further about it!
In my mission to help my overweight patients achieve a healthy weight, I"ve come across two fabulous resources that you might consider if you are battling the bulge:
1. Reality Bites (www.mymealplan.ca)
This is a fabulous healthy eating program designed by Canadian dieticians. There is a special emphasis on helping people with diabetes, but the diet plans can be used by anyone who wants to lose weight or simply eat healthy! When you join, you need to select the small (1200-1500 cal), medium (1500-1800 cal), or large (1800-2100 cal) diet plan. To figure out which plan you need in order to lose weight (or maintain weight if you already at appropriate weight), use the BMR calculator on my main page in the right hand column (www.drsue.ca), or talk to you health care provider. This program will then provide you with a fabulous meal plan and a grocery list that makes it very easy to adhere to!
The meal plans are carb and calorie controlled, as well as fulfilling recommendations for intake of fiber, sodium, cholesterol, fat, and saturated fat. There are a plethora of excellent recipes and diabetes information on the site as well. Membership costs $20.95 per month.
2. TOPS (www.tops.org)
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a nonprofit, noncommercial, weight loss support organization based in the US, with chapters located worldwide. It operates primarily by offering group support, and by accountability with weekly weigh-ins at chapter meetings.
New members should consult with their physician to obtain a goal weight, and then report it to their chapter Weight Recorder. A private weigh in occurs at each chapter meeting, followed by a program on a wide variety of topics pertaining to the weight loss journey and healthy lifestyle. Meetings provide members with positive reinforcement and motivation in adhering to their food and exercise plans.
Cost is $30 CDN per month, plus a few dollars per month in chapter operating costs. There are lots of chapters - I counted 36 within a 25 mile radius of my own postal code! You can locate a chapter here.
These are just a couple of suggestions - there are lots of great weight loss organizations out there. Find the one that"s right for you!
Dr. Sue © 2009 www.drsue.ca drsuetalks@gmail.com
