Smart Woman: Maintaining Your Weight Loss
By: Maxine Ridling
Updated: February 7, 2013
If this year's desire to lose weight has lost some steam, no sweat, simply start again. Reassess your expectations. Your goal should be to lose one to two pounds in the first week and the same thereafter. If you find your weekly weight loss has slowed down or plateaued you may need to make some changes. When you lose weight your calorie needs actually decrease so it might be time to cut out one snack or to change up some of your meals if you've been doing the same thing over and over again. You may also have to up the exercise. Maybe start lifting a few more weights and extend the time that you're working out. If you don't exercise, you may need to start. Enlisting a buddy can help. Find someone who can maybe work out with you or hold you accountable.
Also, don't forget to reward yourself. If you've been craving dance lessons, photography lessons or a new pair of shoes, this is the time to celebrate and buy those things. And stick to the basics: keep a food journal, don't skip meals, eat foods from all of the food groups to reduce temptation, and make healthy choices when you eat out.
Every day is a new beginning and you have the opportunity to live a healthy life starting with your very next meal!


