Weight loss, the common New Year’s Resolution

JUST LIKE that 2023 is behind us as we enter 2024.  As the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve, many of you would have had a resolution or two. They may have included “Quit smoking”, “Pay off the credit card bill”, “Take more time off” and many on the Fraser Coast would have embarked on a journey towards a healthier lifestyle, armed with a newfound determination to shed those extra kilos. Unfortunately, many of these New Year's resolutions on weight loss tend to falter within the first few weeks or months. How to improve your chance of success?

Set realistic expectations to accompany these resolutions. Many will set ambitious and rigid goals, in an unattainably short period. Whilst rapid results are tempting, in reality sustainable weight loss requires time, patience and gradual lifestyle changes. When you fail to see immediate progress, frustration sets in, leading to loss of motivation.

Have specific goals in place. Vague resolutions such as "lose weight" or "get fit" lack clarity, which does not lead to effective planning and execution. Successful weight loss requires concrete, measurable goals, accompanied by a well-structured plan. Examples of goals may include “weight loss of 1 kilo per month” or “attend a 30-minute walk five times a week” or “reduce from 3 heavy beers at night to 3 light beers”.

Embrace a balanced and forgiving mindset, where occasional setbacks are acknowledged and accepted, you can foster a healthier and more sustainable approach to weight loss. Allowing yourself to have a hiccup along the way is okay. 

Build your team to ensure that you are successful with your weight loss resolution. Whilst historically it was thought that diet and exercise were the key components of weight loss, we now know that emotion plays a big role. Your healthcare team, may include your general practitioner, exercise physiologist, dietician, counsellor or psychologist. We also know that a big part of your team will include friends, family and the community.

Successfully achieving and maintaining weight loss in 2024, will require a realistic approach, specific and achievable goals, a balanced mindset, and a supportive environment. By addressing these, you can enhance your chances of making lasting and positive changes to your health and well-being.

Dr Nick Yim – GP Torquay Doctors