Curves in the right places: pear-shaped bodies promote better health than apple shapes.
By Dr. Annie Xu
As we wrap up 2024 for the history books, folks frequently focus on New Year’s Resolutions. One common resolution after a few months of feasting is weight loss. While planning for a healthier 2025, if your plans include shedding a few pounds, consider the following tips.
- “Why do I want to lose weight?” Consider the root cause of your motivations. Are you trying to lose weight for overall body health? Are you willing to overhaul old eating habits and maintain these changes? Are you willing to commit to an exercise regimen for good? If the answer to any of these questions is no, then the chance of success is unlikely.
- Set a “S.M.A.R.T” goal, which is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Based. Often, we daydream about a potential future. To make your weight loss goal a reality, set realistic expectations. For example: “Three days per week, I will go to the gym and walk on the treadmill for 15 minutes during January 2025.” These goals should be updated regularly.
- Enjoy healthy foods! If you like potato chips, try to swap those for healthier rice crackers or popcorn. If you love soda, try to change to sugar-free or carbonated water. When eating, try to stick to the plate method for portion control. 50% of your plate should be fruits and vegetables followed by 25% whole grain carbohydrates (bread, pasta, rice) and 25% lean protein (chicken, seafood, lean red meat).
Sticking to these tips can help you commit to your resolution and make weight loss a reality! Remember – enduring weight loss means committing to a new lifestyle. This is a marathon and not a sprint! If you have any more specific health needs, consider consulting your physician.
Dr. Annie Xu is a local primary care physician at Hot Springs Internal Medicine Clinic, specializing in chronic care management, women’s health, and general practice medicine. Her clinic is located at 301 Exchange St, Hot Springs. To schedule an appointment, call 501-621-4222.
