So, you did it! You were diligent, practiced healthy habits, and FINALLY reached your goal weight. Congratulations! Now what? 

One critical part of a weight loss/wellness journey that often isn’t considered until you reach your goal is how to KEEP the weight off. This is known as “maintenance,” and some say it can be just as hard as weight loss. 

The good news is that recent studies have given us a lot of good advice regarding maintaining weight loss. Today we’re going to discuss four crucial components to maintenance. 

1. A low-fat, feasible diet.

Pick a diet you can stick to! If you choose a super restrictive fad diet, chances are you won’t be able to sustain your weight loss. It’s important to consider maintenance a lifestyle, not a “diet.” Choose food guidelines that will nourish, not restrict, so that you can feel good, remain consistent, and stay healthy!

2. Eat at regular intervals.

Don’t starve yourself or eat at inconsistent times during weight loss. Some intermittent fasting diets work for people, but all health plans are individualized. What works for some may not work for others. If you are feeling deprived, that is not sustainable. It’s important to find consistent eating times that make sense for your lifestyle.

3. Self-monitor with eating and exercise.

Tracking is essential even after you’ve reached your goal weight. You can use an app, a device, or even a pen and paper to keep track of your movement and food. Continue to monitor yourself so that if you start noticing you aren’t where you want to be, you can look at your data and make adjustments.  

4. Self-confidence is key!

If you feel that you know what you’re doing regarding your health, you will continue to make good decisions. Have the confidence to make great choices about your health, movement, and the foods you eat. If you believe in yourself, you will keep the weight off! 

In conclusion, it’s important to consider these four components when maintaining your weight loss and continuing your wellness journey. They will help you continue to have success and live the long, healthy life you deserve. You can do it!

At the Wellness Center and Progressive Pediatrics, we want to help teens and pre-teens develop confidence in themselves and create a health plan that lasts for the rest of their lives!

If you’re ready to start today, please visit: https://progressivepediatrics.com/wellness/

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