One of the most common questions we are asked by our patients and potential patients is "Will I have to remain on the medications prescribed for weight loss long term or forever?" There is no simple answer to these questions.
What we have found through the use of the prescribed weight loss medications (both personally and professionally) is that combined with mindfulness (ie a healthy diet that practices moderation and exercise (aka moving your body)), it is possible to achieve sustained weight loss. It all comes down to recognizing habits and changing patterns. A lot of times weight loss success turns into a positive feedback loop. The more you lose, the better you feel. The better you feel, the more you move, the more energy you have, & the more you lose. It’s motivating to see success!
A healthy diet is one that is balanced with good sources of nutrition that are varied in type. A large part of ours and other cultures are focused around food--we celebrate and mourn by sharing foods with those around us. Large parts of our gathering together at various times throughout the year and seasons of our lives revolve around the foods we share. At Hygenerate, we want our patients to enjoy life and a big part of that includes food! We will encourage you to enjoy all things in moderation as a part of our weight loss program!
The term mindfulness also incorporates learning new behaviors. Many of us need to reframe our understanding of the concept of portion sizes. At times, this may require measuring and tracking your meals. As humans, we tend to underestimate portion sizes and our daily intake. Therefore, using tools like MyFitnessPal, a food diary, food scales, and measuring cups may be necessary for a portion or all of your weight loss journey. Utilizing these intentional tools is one more step in moving towards long term weight loss and weight management success. Mindfulness in weight loss and weight management also includes movement (aka exercise). It would be unreasonable to expect someone who leads a sedentary lifestyle to then start going for 3 mile runs 5 days a week. It would, however, be possible to add in 20 minutes of choice movement 3-4 times per week. The movement doesn't have to be all at once, but the goal should be to do it a few days per week. These small changes in intentional mindfulness surrounding your health will make the biggest differences in the sustainability of your health.