Diets for weight loss have been around for a very long time. There have been good ones and bad ones, and they were our mothers’ diets, grandmothers’ diets, great-grandmothers’ diets and so on. Popular methods and names may have changed over the years, but the goal is usually the same – to lose weight and lose it fast.
While popular diets over the years (cigarettes, cabbage soup or sedation, anyone?) do often work in the short term, who wants to follow one of these for life? What many of us are realizing, from scientists to Sally next door, is that there is a better way to lose weight, manage weight and still enjoy eating. The good news is that the dieting tide seems to be shifting, and many people with weight loss as a goal are looking for a more sustainable, healthy and long term diet. Here are some of the trends and lifestyle changes you may want to start incorporating for a more balanced approach to a healthy weight:
- Whole foods – These minimally processed, high-quality foods include some of our favorite ingredients like whole grains, fruits and vegetables and lean proteins. No need to stick to all whole food all the time; just focusing on less processed and more whole foods on most days can make a big difference.
- Moderation – Maybe we’re just plain tired of beating ourselves up about every bite we take, or maybe it’s that attitude of entitlement we hear so much about now. We want what we want, and more people out to lose weight are ready to ditch deprivation in favor of a more moderate diet. Weight Watchers is a good example of a formal plan that embraces this idea of balance.
- Mindfulness – As life gets more chaotic, there’s been a renewed focus on taking at least a few minutes to sit down and enjoy meals. Whether you’re sitting with friends at a restaurant or family at home, savor the flavors, smells and textures of food without any distraction other than conversation.
Start a more balanced approach to a healthy weight with these strategies at home and dining out. Search for Healthy Dining menu choices near you using HealthyDiningFinder.com for delicious dietitian picks packed with flavor and whole foods.