Fitness & Nutrition: How to Stop Obsessing About Body Weight

August 4, 2017 | By Irina Belfer-Lehat
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Teaching my clients of all ages, shapes and sizes how to live a healthy lifestyle is what I do every day. Focusing on small changes, realistic goals & expectations; small victories like improving one’s HDL/LDL numbers, Hmg A1C or weight loss. However, lately I notice that people are getting anxious and obsessive about numbers and size, and have a hard time enjoying meals, outings and celebrations.

Living your life obsessed with weight and food can become exhausting. It becomes isolating and unnecessary. Think about how much more joy we would have if we simply enjoyed healthy food and stopped feeling guilty all the time.

Ask yourself: What was your lowest weight and your highest weight as an adult? There are more chances to stick with the weight that is 10 pounds more than your lowest weight for the long run, rather than focusing on 10 pounds less than your lowest weight.

Who is the leanest person in your family?
If the answer is “you,” then you are doing pretty good. Genetics predict many factors and weight is one of them. If your siblings and parents are overweight and/or obese, you should set your goals more realistically and focus on improving your health, rather than focusing on numbers and size.

Remember, no two people are alike, and no one diet will have the same results. However, some rules of healthy eating do benefit all:

►Cut out simple sugars

►Avoid processed foods

►Water first-veggies most

►Increase fiber

►Don’t eat after 7:00 p.m. (most days)

►Limit carbs to one meal-preferable (in the early hours)

►Exercise more

►Get your annual physical exams and know your numbers


Irina Belfer-Lehat
Dietitian and Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist

Irina Belfer-Lehat of Nutrition Solutions Co. is a New York State-licensed dietitian and certified dietitian-nutritionist. Irina Lehat RD Nutrition Solutions offers group classes starting in September, for kids in kindergarten through high school. Small groups, affordable prices! Mention this article and receive 20 percent off any services. For more information, call (917) 769-8031, e-mail irinalehat@gmail.com or visit www.irinalehat.com.

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