Finding Diets That Work

This is part of an article from WebMD by Kathleen M. Zelman, MPH, RD, LD. Titled, "The Worst Diets Ever: Diets That Don't Work" can be found in its entirety here:
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/worst-diets-ever-diets-that-dont-work

It is interesting to note that even with weight loss surgery we tend to seek diet programs and plans to help us lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. In fact, the 5 Day Pouch Test, considered by many to be a diet, has helped thousands of people get back to the weight loss surgery basics that we may have let slide. I have excerpted from Ms. Zelman's article three points for finding a weight loss or weight management plan that can work for us. These are good common sense tips that go a long way in supporting our healthy lifestyle.

Finding a Diet That Works
by Kathleen M. Zelman for WebMD

"There is no such thing as one size fits all when it comes to diet plans, and it's key to find one that fits your lifestyle. The best diet is one you can safely and realistically stick with for the long term, plain and simple.

"It should be flexible enough to fit into your real life and should encourage healthier eating by focusing on balance, variety, and moderation" says May. "I encourage my patients to enjoy eating the foods they love every day, mindfully and in moderation."

In fact, the best "diet" may not be a diet at all, says Yale University's David Katz, MD, author of The Flavor Point Diet.

"Forget about 'dieting' and instead, think about strategies to satisfy your hunger for fewer calories," he says. "Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help manage your appetite."

Dawn Jackson-Blatner, RD, a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association (ADA) recommends using diet books as a loose template for tips, strategies, and behavioral ideas. Or save your money and follow the three-step approach she uses with her own weight loss clients:

1. Take inventory of what you're doing now and identify your "weakest link." "Most people know immediately where they are vulnerable -- 3 p.m. snacking, monster portions, too much alcohol, (an) insatiable sweet tooth, or snacking all day long," she says. Katz suggests trying to identify what led to your weight gain and address it. For example, if you overeat because of stress, consider a stress management course. Develop a strategy to address areas where you're vulnerable so you can set yourself up for success.

2. Identify one to three small changes you can make right now in your diet and exercise habits. "Even though they want quick results, this method has proven to be safe, effective, and sustainable long term," Blatner says."

3. Reassess in a few weeks to see whether your changes are working; then make a few more small changes. "It takes about 12 weeks for you to see progress, and that is about the time you should incorporate a few more changes so you keep pushing the bar," Blatner says.

And remember: if you are struggling with weight control after weight loss surgery it is never to late to re-discover your tool. Give the 5 Day Pouch Test a try and get back in the game of healthy living. Thousands who had lost hope in their weight loss surgery tool have learned, with the 5 Day Pouch Test, how to work the tool again. You can do it too.