Losing weight and keeping it off is a lot easier when you have expert guidance from the leader in weight loss and its supportive community. WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers) just rolled out its most customized program ever, and it's poised to continue to help millions of members around the world accomplish their weight-loss and wellness goals in 2020. With myWW, each new member takes a personal assessment which matches them with a customized program that can make losing weight easier.

While many members follow and succeed on the WW program using the WW app, those who would like a little extra expert guidance and consistent support swear by the weekly WW Workshops to keep them accountable and help them stay on track. WW Coaches host weekly 30-minute Workshops at over 800 studios nationwide.

Amanda Tougias is a WW Coach at WW Studios in Herndon, Springfield, Sterling, Centreville, Falls Church and Fairfax. (WW Coaches are all previous members who met their goal weight with WW and now share their knowledge and support with WW members at weekly Workshops.) Learn more about her weight-loss journey and get inspired!

Answers have been edited for clarity and length.

Amanda: In 2003, after struggling with my weight for many years, I found myself more than 100 pounds overweight. I'd tried multiple weight-loss programs, and they all failed, but WW was different. I lost the weight and began a new, healthier lifestyle. The beauty of WW is that it helped me realize that, for me, the struggle with my weight is about more than just a number on the scale or the way I choose to nourish my body. It is also about my mind-body connection. Attending WW Workshops helped me learn how to connect my mindset to my goals, as well as how to "let" myself connect to other members' shared experiences.

Amanda: The vulnerability of other people. This journey can feel very isolating, so having a community that understands the language and attitudes of the journey is an invaluable cornerstone of my success.

Amanda: WW has taught me how to be the captain of my ship, and with myWW, I get to choose my ship! I have found that I need different types of guidance and accountability throughout my journey, and myWW delivers me a personalized plan based on what I need, when I need it. I'm on the Purple Plan, which means I can choose healthier options when I dine out without sacrificing my glass of wine with dinner.

Amanda: It's like finding your first forever home. You walk in and will immediately meet someone who will make you feel calm and welcomed. That person (whether a Studio team member or another member) will meet you where you are emotionally and physically, in order to ensure that you feel right at home.

Amanda: We discuss some pretty typical issues like portion control, dining-out strategies and how to find the right fitness routine for yourself. And we also discuss deeper issues like emotional eating, weight bias and mindfulness.

Amanda: Slow down, take a breath. Things happen so fast during this time of year. Slowing your mind down and taking a breath can help your decision-making process. Frankly, some holiday "treats" are worth it and some aren't. When we're rushing around too much, though, it's hard to remember to evaluate that decision.

Amanda: We have some amazing "joining" discounts planned as well as Workshop techniques that are geared toward helping our community set realistic goals for themselves. I'm excited to join in on the fun!

Amanda: When it comes to our health and wellness, there is no "one and done" solution. Once you reach your health and/or wellness goals, you will need to use the same techniques to maintain them. This is one of my favorite parts of WW. They have true behavior-changing techniques that made me realize the importance of sticking to my wellness goals. It helped shift my thinking.

Amanda: I lean on my community. Even after being a WW Coach for nearly 15 years, I still attend a Workshop each week as a member. I also use our online community, Connect, to celebrate my personal victories and ask for help when I need it.

Amanda: Come see us. The WW approach helps to simplify the complicated "getting started" issue. We can walk you through it all. And beyond that, go slowly: Pick one thing you want to work on, be compassionate with yourself and practice embracing imperfection.

Amanda: My members. We are a team we are in this journey together. The members in my Workshops inspire me just as much, if not more, every week through their dedication to themselves, their journey and to each other.

Amanda: Maybe you think you don't need us we need you. Our WW Workshops are a truly judgment-free, collaborative space. All ideas are not just welcomed, they are embraced. Our community is strong because we have so many brains sharing empathy, information and strength.

WW is a weight-loss program that takes a people-focused, science-backed approach to promoting weight loss and healthy living. Its new program, myWW, is fully customized to make losing weight easier for you.

When you join myWW, you'll start with a personal assessment that asks a range of questions about your unique food preferences, activity level, lifestyle and approach to weight loss. Based on your responses, WW will scientifically match you with a customized, proven weight-loss plan that can make losing weight easier.

Every person in the WW Studio is on your side! The friendly guides and expert Coaches will quickly become your greatest motivators and sources of support to make 2020 the year you reach your weight loss goals!

Workshops held at WW Studio locations cover topics that are relevant to weight loss, health and wellness. You can participate as much or as little as you want. There are WW Workshops during the morning, afternoon and evening, seven days a week. This gives you flexibility to attend the Workshop time/day/location that works for during any particular week and ensure your accountability network is always accessible.

Based on years of research, the WW Workshop curriculum is always evolving to bring the best science-backed techniques to help you lose weight and build healthy habits for life.

See the original post:
How This WW (Formerly Weight Watchers) Coach Lost 100 Pounds - Patch.com

Losing weight and keeping it off is a lot easier when you have expert guidance from the leader in weight loss and its supportive community. WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers) just rolled out its most customized program ever, and it's poised to continue to help millions of members around the world accomplish their weight-loss and wellness goals in 2020. With myWW, each new member takes a personal assessment which matches them with a customized program to make losing weight easier.

While many members follow and succeed on the WW program using the WW app, those who would like a little extra expert guidance and consistent support swear by the weekly WW Workshops to keep them accountable and help them stay on track. WW Coaches host weekly 30-minute Workshops at over 800 studios nationwide.

Michelle Kennedy Barrett is a WW Coach at WW Studio Kennesaw, Georgia. (WW Coaches are all previous members who met their goal weight with WW and now share their knowledge and support with WW members at weekly Workshops.) Learn more about her weight-loss journey and get inspired!

Answers have been edited for clarity and length.

Michelle: In 2012, after having two children and taking care of everyone but myself, I reached an all-time-high weight of 310 pounds. I walked into a WW Studio, and the leader at the time told me to stick with him and we would get it done. I believed him. I needed someone to believe in me before I could believe in myself.

Over the next year, I made friends in my Monday meeting and stayed the course. I lost 100 pounds! After not being as consistent with my meetings, I gained about 25 pounds back. I don't look at this as a failure, though, because I learned. I learned that I need that connection with others who are on the same journey. I returned and stuck with it, and continue to, to this day. I've lost a total of 140 pounds.

I also discovered that I had been self-medicating with food and alcohol. I am currently four years sober, and I believe that my WW wellness journey led to that discovery. I am open about it because I feel that if I am, I can help someone who may struggle with the same things. I've been a WW Coach for 2.5 years.

Michelle: What I find so inspiring about our WW community is the support that the members show for each other. It's magical to see them support each other in the Workshops and celebrate each other on their journeys. I'm in awe of their honesty in the Workshops.

Michelle: My favorite thing about myWW is that the plans are customized for our members and their lifestyles. The personalization is unlike any other program we have ever offered. Our studio team is trained to help guide our members on their wellness journeys and meet them where they are. myWW is flexible and sustainable, and no food is off-limits. Most importantly, it works in real life, for real people. It meets our members exactly where they are.

Michelle: Our Kennesaw WW Studio is a welcoming, warm and supportive place to come and connect with community and discover new techniques for your health and wellness journey. It's a bright and modern space that provides a nonjudgmental team of Coaches and guides who are happy to help you, right where you are.

Michelle: Our topics are based on the three pillars of the WW program food, activity and mindset. Our members share how they have had success or challenges making habits, and then we offer science-based facts and then talk through a technique of how to make that happen. Our goal is for our members to leave our Studio inspired and with a clear, actionable goal that they can work on for the week. I truly believe that the magic happens in the Workshops.

Michelle: My advice would be to make a plan and be open to trying new recipes. WW has over 8,000 recipes on the WW app to choose from. Most importantly, remember that you're going for progress not perfection. If things don't go as planned, you don't have to wait until the next day or next week to get back on track you can start with the very next meal.

Michelle: My advice would be to set small, attainable goals. Find an activity that you truly enjoy, because if you enjoy it, you will continue. Also, connect with friends who have the same goals. The secret is just not giving up.

Michelle: We have added new WW Workshops to our schedule, drop-in hours, and App Academies with tutorials so our members can learn new things about our wonderful WW app. Our Workshops and weekly topics will help keep the momentum going!

Michelle: It's important to focus year-round on health and wellness year-round because it helps you to live a full and active life. To set goals based on your health can be very motivating. There is nothing like getting a gold star from your doctor at your yearly checkup!

Michelle: I stay motivated by staying connected to other people who have the same goals as I do. I still attend my WW Workshops as a member. I need that connection with others. I schedule my activities on my calendar. Honestly, our members motivate me, and they don't even realize it. To be able to shine a light for others that was once shone for me is truly an honor.

I also like to set larger goals and break them down, like the half-marathon that I just completed. It was my very first half, and I knew if I didn't follow a plan, I wouldn't be ready.

Michelle: My advice would be to start where you are and give yourself time to navigate the new changes you're making. Habits come in bundles, so start with something small like drinking water. It's funny how that can lead to another habit like maybe taking a walk. All of the little things add up, so just stick with it. Joining us at WW for the Workshops, you'll get lots of good tips and ideas. Our Coaches, guides and members truly care.

Michelle: I am motivated by our members. To see them come in on a weekly basis and hear how they have reached a goal or had an "aha" moment that week is amazing. I am motivated by helping others, the way I was helped. I also think my members know that I am human, just like them. We are in this together.

My Saturday members make what we call a "support ball" with our nametags at the end of the workshop. They give it to the member who needs the most support that week. It's a great way of showing support to each other. They gave it to me for my half-marathon, and I carried it with me. It meant the world to me!

Michelle: Our WW Studio is a wonderful and inspiring place for our community to connect and share their journeys. It's a safe place, and we truly care! We would love to have you come visit so we can tell you more about WW.

WW is a weight-loss program that takes a people-focused, science-backed approach to promoting weight loss and healthy living. Its new program, myWW, is fully customized to make losing weight easier for you.

When you join myWW, you'll start with a personal assessment that asks a range of questions about your unique food preferences, activity level, lifestyle and approach to weight loss. Based on your responses, WW will scientifically match you with a customized, proven weight-loss plan that can make losing weight easier.

Every person in the WW Studio is on your side! The friendly guides and expert Coaches will quickly become your greatest motivators and sources of support to make 2020 the year you reach your weight loss goals!

Workshops held at WW Studio locations cover topics that are relevant to weight loss, health and wellness. You can participate as much or as little as you want. There are WW Workshops during the morning, afternoon and evening, seven days a week. This gives you flexibility to attend the Workshop time/day/location that works for during any particular week and ensure your accountability network is always accessible.

Based on years of research, the WW Workshop curriculum is always evolving to bring the best science-backed techniques to help you lose weight and build healthy habits for life.

View original post here:
How This WW (Formerly Weight Watchers) Coach Lost 140 Pounds - Patch.com

Grace Gardiner, 55, of Windsor, reflects on her weight-loss journey in her kitchen on Dec. 27, 2019. Since 2013, Gardiner has dropped 165 pounds, and it started with a New Year's resolution.Dax Melmer / Windsor Star

If youre thinking of making weight loss a goal in 2020, Windsor resident Grace Gardiner offers a simple message of patience and encouragement.

It seems a bit cliche to say, If I can do it, you can do it. But you really can, said Gardiner, 55, who estimates she has dropped 165 pounds since she made her own resolution.

The year that Gardiner began making a change for the better was 2013. In her late 40s at the time, her five-foot-six frame tipped the scales at 300 pounds the heaviest weight of her life.

I was really not doing well. I had sleep apnea. I was diabetic, Gardiner recalled. I suppose I was in a bit of denial that things were getting worse.

The culprit, Gardiner believes, was a habit of emotional eating when dealing with life stressors. It was all the things that you can mindlessly eat. You tell yourself, Oh, Im just going to have a few potato chips. And then, all of a sudden, your arms at the bottom of the bag.

Grace Gardiner of Windsor when she weighed 300 pounds, some time before she joined a Weight Watchers program at her workplace.Courtesy of Grace Gardiner / Windsor Star

Gardiner realized she had to get serious about her health when she couldnt walk up the stairs to the second floor of her home without pausing for rest.

At that age, I knew I was far too young to be having those kinds of problems, she said.

Although Gardiner made the decision with a New Years resolution, it took a while for her to commit to a plan. For several months, she tried and failed at haphazardly depriving herself.

It was more of a wish than a goal, at that point, Gardiner said. I knew something had to change, but I didnt know what to do Depriving yourself doesnt work, because then you bounce back the other way.

Around the middle of the year, Gardiner joined a Weight Watchers program at her workplace.

Now armed with a plan for portion control, nutrition, and activity, Gardiner finally had the structure she needed to lose weight effectively.

By the end of the year, Gardiner was about 35 pounds lighter than when she made her resolution. That was phenomenal, she said. It was wonderful to be able to go to my doctor and see how proud she was of me.

Gardiner stuck with the program, and continued to gradually shed the pounds. In 2017, after four years of healthy habits, she reached her goal weight 150 pounds.

And then I actually was able to go a bit beyond that, Gardiner said.

Grace Gardiner, 55, of Windsor, with a picture of herself before she dropped 165 pounds. Photographed in her home on Dec. 27, 2019.Dax Melmer / Windsor Star

But hitting a number was only part of Gardiners transformation. She knew the greater challenge would be to keep up her new lifestyle and keep off the weight.

I have maintained it now for two years, Gardiner said. Not only my physical health, but my mental health has kept me focused so I dont slip back into old patterns.

Seven years since her weight-loss journey began, Gardiner has much greater confidence in herself and the ability of others to repeat her success.

You dont necessarily have to set that long-term goal of losing 150 pounds. That might seem very unattainable on Jan. 1, Gardiner explained. But you can say, I want to get healthy. I want to start with losing 10 pounds. And then when you lose that 10 pounds, you can set another small goal, another 10 pounds.

Those small goals keep us motivated. And when you start feeling the health benefits, the confidence, the clarity of mind youll keep going.

dchen@postmedia.com

Read the rest here:
Windsor woman's weight-loss journey started with New Year's resolution - Windsor Star

Losing weight and keeping it off is a lot easier when you have expert guidance from the leader in weight loss and its supportive community. WW (formerly known as Weight Watchers) just rolled out its most customized program ever, and it's poised to continue to help millions of members around the world accomplish their weight-loss and wellness goals in 2020. With myWW, each new member takes a personal assessment which matches them with a customized program that can make losing weight easier.

While many members follow and succeed on the WW program using the WW app, those who would like a little extra expert guidance and consistent support swear by the weekly WW Workshops to keep them accountable and help them stay on track. WW Coaches host weekly 30-minute Workshops at over 800 studios nationwide.

Alicia Sissac is a WW Coach at WW Studio Long Beach and WW Studio Lakewood. (WW Coaches are all previous members who met their goal weight with WW and now share their knowledge and support with WW members at weekly Workshops.) Learn more about her weight-loss journey and get inspired!

Answers have been edited for clarity and length.

Alicia: In 2002, I was a police detective and had just given birth to our youngest daughter six months before. Over the course of five years and two pregnancies, I gained 50 pounds. As a police officer, I felt that I could no longer protect myself if needed not to mention my partner.

My weight had truly become a matter of life or death. I knew that I had to do something. A friend recommended WW, and since I had tried everything else, I figured that I should at least give it a try. I joined and thought that there was no way that I was going to be successful because I wasn't hungry, but I actually lost 5 pounds that first week. I lost a total of 48 pounds that year and have been a lifetime member at my goal weight ever since. WW changed my life and changed my perspective on my overall health and well-being.

Alicia: What I enjoy most about the WW community is the supportive atmosphere. In no other area of my life have I ever been immersed in a community of people who simply want to see you succeed.

Alicia: My favorite thing about the new myWW is that it's customized to fit each member's individual needs and preferences. Members just take the myWW personal assessment, and then WW's smart algorithm will match members with their very own customized and proven weight-loss plan. It is scientifically proven that customized approaches lead to greater engagement and more behavior change than generic approaches, so it excites me to think of the success our members will see with this program.

Alicia: I would describe our local WW Studio as being welcoming, nonjudgmental and inviting.

Alicia: Our weekly techniques are designed around our three pillars, which are food, fitness and mindset. Some of the techniques discussed recently in our Workshops have been: Find the Right Portions, Bounce Back and Get to Know ZeroPoint Foods. (WW's proprietary SmartPoints system simplifies complex nutritional information into a simple number to easily guide your eating decisions to support weight loss. ZeroPoint foods form the foundation of a healthy eating pattern, and are foods you don't have to track! Depending on your customized plan, they can include foods like chicken breast, fat-free Greek yogurt, all vegetables and more.)

Alicia: My greatest tip is to treat the holidays the same as you would treat any other time of the year. If you are attending holiday parties, have a plan and decide what's most important. Focus on ZeroPoint foods and try to stay within your daily Point target.

Alicia: It is important to focus on health and wellness year-round because weight loss and weight maintenance is the result of what you do consistently. If you make small changes over time, they will ultimately become new habits. Changing habits may not be easy, but many things will become easier.

Alicia: I continue to stay motivated following social media accounts of people who are on their health and wellness journey. I also love the way I feel now and I know that I do not want to go back to the way I felt years ago when I was carrying around 48 extra pounds.

I have found an activity that I love, which is SoulCycle. When it comes to activity, it is important to find something that excites you. I go to the gym after work, which really works for me.

Alicia: My advice for someone who wants to get healthy but does not know where to start is to simply start, and start small. Most WW Studios are open seven days a week. Walk into a WW Studio or go online and check out the program. It has been the easiest thing that I have ever done to lose the weight and the most sustainable.

Alicia: What motivates me as WW Coach is having the opportunity to witness members reach goals that they once thought were impossible. I am motivated each day by their success and cannot imagine my life without having each and every member in it.

Alicia: For anyone who is struggling to become healthier or wants to lose weight, stop by a WW Studio today. You will find the most supportive group of coaches, guides and members who will support you all the way to your goal.

WW is a weight-loss program that takes a people-focused, science-backed approach to promoting weight loss and healthy living. Its new program, myWW, is fully customized to make losing weight easier for you.

When you join myWW, you'll start with a personal assessment that asks a range of questions about your unique food preferences, activity level, lifestyle and approach to weight loss. Based on your responses, WW will scientifically match you with a customized, proven weight-loss plan that can make losing weight easier.

Every person in the WW Studio is on your side! The friendly guides and expert Coaches will quickly become your greatest motivators and sources of support to make 2020 the year you reach your weight loss goals!

Workshops held at WW Studio locations cover topics that are relevant to weight loss, health and wellness. You can participate as much or as little as you want. There are WW Workshops during the morning, afternoon and evening, seven days a week. This gives you flexibility to attend the Workshop time/day/location that works for during any particular week and ensure your accountability network is always accessible.

Based on years of research, the WW Workshop curriculum is always evolving to bring the best science-backed techniques to help you lose weight and build healthy habits for life.

Read more:
How This WW (Formerly Weight Watchers) Coach Lost 48 Pounds - Patch.com

Follow these healthy diet tips to stay fit for New Year's eve.

Highlights

The holiday season is a precarious time when your diet is bound to lose its track. After eating to your heart's content during Christmas, the chilly waves make it hard for us to hit back the gym. Most of us put off our regular diet and workout regime till New Year's Eve, promising ourselves to restart the next year. Alright, it's justified. After all, it's the season of holidaying and merrymaking. But, instead of going the whole hog into the phase of 'health disaster', you can go easy on your break. Don't let a few potholes on the road throw you off your fitness journey.

As we all gear up to celebrate the New Year's eve with a bang, we also want to look our best. Letting lethargy creep in after the food fiesta of Christmas will only add up to the extra kilos we gained during the festival. We say, make the most of the holidays and stay in shape for the next big party you are going to attend to ring in the new year; in this case, a whole new decade.

(Also Read:5 Winter Foods To Cut Belly Fat And Aid Weight Loss)

Don't be lazy if you want keep fit.

New Year resolutions are just an excuse to get by the end of the current year. Force yourself out from your cosy blanket and take a small walk in your balcony, or take the stairs whenever possible, if you don't want to step outdoors.

While you make your way in-and-out of parties and social gathering during this season, accept the servings discerningly. Avoid fried, fattening foods; control the portion of the food, and try to eat healthy snacks and salads as much as possible.

Staying hydrated is one of the best ways to keep fit. Drink a minimum of two litres of water every day to keep your digestion running smoothly and to flush out toxins from the system.

(Also Read:Winter Weight Loss - 5 Easy Diet Tips To Maintain A Low-Carb Diet This Season)

Drink sufficient water and keep yourself well-hydrated.

Avoid staying up all night and be among the last ones to leave all the parties you attend this holiday season. Getting enough rest is important to stay healthy. Make sure to get at least eight hours of sleep every day.

This hectic time period requires you to stay active. Eat more of protein-rich foods like poultry, nuts, legumes and beans to fuel your body and keep your stomach sated to avoid binge eating.

Put you best foot forward to walk in the New Year 2020. Don't wait till 2020 to take care of your health and lose that extra weight. Keep these tips in mind and keep your weight loss diet hale and hearty.

About Neha GroverLove for reading roused her writing instincts. Neha is guilty of having a deep-set fixation with anything caffeinated. When she is not pouring out her nest of thoughts onto the screen, you can see her reading while sipping on coffee.

Link:
Weight Loss: 6 Diet Tips To Stay Healthy This Holiday Season Till New Year's Eve - NDTV Food

Lorraine Kelly is the recognisable friendly face of ITV daytime programme,Lorraine. In recent years, the TV host revealed she dropped two dress sizes by doing one thing, what did she do?

Today, Lorraine Kelly appeared on ITVs Lorraine to discuss her biggest show highlights of 2019 which included a candid interview with Hillary Clinton and her daughter Chelsea, a hilarious interview with singing sensation, Celine Dion and an interview with Dame Emma Thompson to discuss the inspiration behind the George Michael Christmas film, Last Christmas.

During Lorraines long career, she has fronted shows including GMTV, ITV Breakfast, and Daybreak. In recent years, some fans have noticed her staggering weight loss and Lorraine has revealed she dropped two dress sizes by cutting out one thing - what did she cut out?

Previously Lorraine revealed that after noticing herself gaining weight, the Scottish journalist decided to change up her lifestyle.

The host revealed that she made one simple change to slim down.

READ MORE:Man loses175lbsusing 'life-changingdiet plan

Lorraine transformed from a size 14 to a size 10.

Speaking on This Morning, she said regular aerobic exercise helped kick start her weight loss and unsurprisingly, Lorraine pointed to her own weight loss DVDs as her key to weight loss.

Speaking on This Morning, she said: I really look forward to my classes, and with the new DVD we wanted to show what a class was like.

Its great going to keep fit but mentally it also makes me feel better.

DON'T MISS

Lorraine told presenters her weight loss made her more confident and prompted her to make bolder choices with her fashion outfits.

The TV personality has managed to keep the weight off by sticking with the athletic habits and she can be seen regularly posting about her intense workouts on her social media accounts online.

Previously, Lorraine posted about her love of fitness classes and even shared on Instagram a video of one of the dance fit classes she attends.

She captioned the post: Shes on fire! Great class tonight with @maxicise.tv#happy #fit #healthy#wellbeing".

Lorraine is also known for regularly going on long walks with her border terrier pup, Angus, which keeps her active and fit with minimal effort.

But, what did she cut out, in particular, to trim down?

Although Kelly is dedicated to maintaining a healthy weight, she revealed that dieting is not on her agenda, reportedly.

Speaking of her diet, the journalist opened up about struggling with portion sizes and she has tried to cut out snacking, in particular, to trim down.

She said: I dont think diets work. Its all about portion control.

My husband cooks for me and sometimes I ask, How many people are coming round?.

She admitted that she isnt a big fan of diets, instead, she found cutting back on how much she ate at each meal helped her shape up.

Go here to see the original:
Lorraine Kelly weight loss: Presenter dropped two dress sizes by cutting this out - Express

From dealing with the cravings of comfort food to battling the ice-cold wind as you head out for work, winter can be a difficult time for a lot of people. The sun no longer greets you in the morning and the darkness looms in as early as 4 in the afternoon.

Hence, for most of us, the winter season is all about getting the bare essentials done and heading back to the comfort of cosy bed and blanket as soon as possible. As the temperature drops, it becomes harder and harder to go outdoors, let alone working out and making healthy food choices.

If you too find it increasingly difficult to be active and stay on the path of fitness during the winter season, be rest assured that you are not alone. Winter weight is a REAL thing and we tell you the four most common reasons for the same.

Read more from the original source:
Weight loss: Why is it harder to lose weight in winter? We tell you the truth - Times of India

With new fad diets making waves in the weight loss space, its quite normal for us to start following them randomly. But no fancy diet can be your answer to those stubborn extra kilos. There is no magic potion for weight loss. The key to a successful battle against the bulge is eating mindfully. Consistently. Yes, consistency is crucial here. In order to make sure that you are able to follow a healthy diet regularly, it needs to be customised to your taste buds. One way of accomplishing this is including healthy version of the foods you love in your meal plan. Adding soups to your diet can be a good weight loss strategy, suggest experts and research. This is because they are healthy and nutritious.

According to some estimates, having a low-calorie-dense soup makes you feel full in lesser number of calories. This definitely helps you in your battle against the bulge. not only enhances satiety but also reduces the need for additional energy intake, thereby aiding in weight loss. A study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association found that starting your lunch or dinner with soup led to weight reduction of 3.8 kgs in 10 weeks on an average.

Having soups filled with fibrous veggies makes you eat less during your lunch or dinner, bringing down your calorie intake. Experts also suggest that including soups in your diet also reduces the risk of health conditions that make it difficult for you to lose weight. If you want to lose a lot of weight, replacing your dinner with a bowl of soup may also help. However, consult a nutritionist before taking any such move.

Vegetable soups can bolster your weight loss mission. They are loaded with essential nutrients like vitamins, fibre, minerals, etc. Here are a few yummy and healthy options for you to try.

This hot and quick liquid meal is not only healthy, its yummy too that makes you full in fewer calories. Thats how you are able to shed hose extra kilos.

1 bunch spinach leaves1 tsp olive oil4-5 black peppercorns teaspoon jeera1 medium-size onion1 piece ginger3 garlic cloves100g paneer1 tbsp lemon juiceSalt to taste

Blanch the spinach leaves in warm water. Drain the hot water and dip them in cold water.

Heat the oil in a pan, adding cumin seeds and peppercorns to it.

Fry till they start to change colour. Add the onions and saut.

Add ginger and garlic and saut till they turn golden.

Take a cup of water to puree the spinach leaves.

Dunk cubed paneer and add lemon juice.

Add salt to taste.

Serve hot.

We all know that almond, like other nuts is a brain booster. However, there are reams of research that have proven the weight loss benefits of this nut as well. So, heres a lip-smacking almond soup recipe for you that will keep you warm and melt your fat.

15 to 20 almonds (badam)3 cups white stock2 tbsp butter1 tbsp plain flour (maida)3/4 cup milk2 drops almond essence2 tbsp fresh creamSalt and freshly ground black pepper (kalimirch)to taste

For Garnishing2 tbsp roasted almond (badam) slivers

Soak almonds in warm water for 10 minutes. Peel off the skin and blend in a mixer using 2 tbsp of water until smooth. Keep the paste aside. Heat butter in a deep non-stick pan, add plain flour to it and mix well. Cook on a medium flame for 30 seconds. Pour white stock, mix well and cook on a medium flame for 3 to 4 minutes. Make sure that you keep stirring it continuously. Now, blend milk, almond paste, almond essence, fresh cream, salt and pepper to it. Mix it well and cook on a medium flame for 4 minutes while stirring occasionally. Garnish with roasted almond slivers. Serve hot.

This is one of the easiest soups that you can whip up this winter. Garlic helps you fight obesity by boosting metabolism and suppressing hunger.

2 tsp finely chopped garlic1 cup chopped and boiled mixed vegetables (French beans, carrots, green peas and cauliflower)1 tsp oil1/4 cup finely chopped onions2 tbsp cooking rolled oats2 tbsp chopped coriander(dhania)Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Pour oil in a non-stick pan, heat it and add garlic and onion to it. Saute them on a medium flame for about 2 minutes.Add all the veggies, 3 cups of water, salt and pepper to the pan. Mix well and cook on a medium flame for 2 minutes, while stirring continuously.

Now, add the oats and coriander. Simmer on a medium flame for another 1 minute.

Serve hot.

Published : December 27, 2019 5:55 pm | Updated:December 27, 2019 5:59 pm

Read the original:
Are you on a weight loss mission? Whip up these soups this winter - TheHealthSite

We're frequently told that the key to weight loss is simple - just eat less and move more. Yet with obesity rates as they are, it's clear that for many people, it's really not that simple at all.

There is, of course, another option for those who are seriously obese or overweight and conservative methods alone haven't worked - and that's weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric or metabolic surgery.

This type of surgery is available on the NHS, for people who meet certain medical and weight criteria, but it's also available privately, at a cost of around 4,000-8,000.

But why is surgery sometimes deemed necessary, and what does it involve? Here, metabolic surgery pioneer Professor Francesco Rubino, lead of The London Bridge Hospital Metabolic and Bariatric Centre, part of HCA Healthcare UK (hcahealthcare.co.uk), and chair of bariatric and metabolic surgery at King's College London, shares his views...

Why can it be so hard for some people to lose weight and keep it off?

"Severe obesity is a disease, not a lifestyle choice. Research shows that when we lose weight by diet, our body reacts by activating mechanisms that defend against that. In fact, hunger-stimulating hormones typically increase after diet-induced weight loss and our body also tends to reduce the amount of energy it utilises, making it difficult to maintain weight loss in the long-term," says Rubino.

"These effects are not under control of our willpower and are ingrained in our biology. This explains why people who try diets almost invariably regain weight at some point. This isn't necessarily a lack of self-discipline, or a person's fault, as most people think, but the result of the way our biology works, defending a set, narrow range for body weight. In people with severe obesity, this set point is too high but the mechanisms that normally defend against weight loss are still working and powerful, thus frustrating voluntary efforts to lose weight by eating less and exercising more."

What is weight loss surgery?

There are different variations of weight loss surgery. The two most common are gastric bypass surgery, which divides the stomach into two smaller pouches and re-routes the small intestine, and sleeve gastrectomy surgery, a procedure that removes part of the stomach and shapes it as a tube or 'sleeve'.

"They were originally designed to reduce the size of the stomach but they actually change the physiologic mechanisms that regulate appetite, satiety and sugar metabolism," Rubino explains. "There isn't a single procedure that fits everyone's needs. Different procedures have different actions, which may result in different potential to improve metabolic conditions associated with obesity, beyond weight loss," he adds. "Hence, the choice of procedure needs to be thoroughly discussed with a specialist and must be tailored to the individual patient's need."

Why is weight loss surgery so effective?

"In the 1950s, when bariatric surgery was first introduced, understanding of the functions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract was quite rudimental - it was considered a mere digestive organ. So it made logical sense to think that by physically limiting the size of the stomach, or bypassing large portions of the intestine, one would be able to reduce the amount of food you can eat or the calories the body can absorb. Research over the last two decades, however, has shown this isn't true," Rubino explains.

"The GI tract is a complex, sophisticated endocrine and metabolic organ, something akin to a computer - some call it the 'second brain' - that receives input from the food we eat and sends signals to other organs to regulate body weight as well as sugar metabolism. Signals from the gut can inform the brain about calorie intake and accordingly regulate hunger and satiety. Other signals reach the liver and pancreas, where they can influence the production or action of insulin.

"This explains why gastrointestinal - bariatric/metabolic - surgery is so effective in inducing and maintaining weight loss, and also why it can dramatically improve other metabolic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes. Research has clearly shown bariatric surgery reduces or abolishes the very mechanisms that normally resist weight loss. In fact, the changes in hunger and satiety hormones that follow bariatric surgery are exactly opposite to those elicited by dietary interventions."

Is metabolic surgery really just a lazy way of losing weight?

"Some argue that diet and exercise, rather than expensive surgery, should be used to treat diabetes or severe obesity. This idea is both ill-conceived and ill-informed. In fact, there's definitive evidence that where surgery is indicated by current guidelines, lifestyle interventions alone are no longer sufficient to achieve adequate disease control," says Rubino. "On the other hand, in people with mere overweight or mild, uncomplicated obesity (BMI under 35 without other metabolic disease), surgery isn't indicated and isn't a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, which can still be effective in preventing progression towards more severe obesity.

"Hence, suggesting lifestyle interventions and not surgery should be the way to treat severe obesity is at odds with both scientific evidence and logic. Suggesting use of only lifestyle interventions in people with severe obesity (a full-blown disease) is tantamount to suggesting one should use lifestyle changes instead of surgery or chemotherapy to treat cancer."

Who can have the surgery?

There's a range of criteria for having weight loss surgery on the NHS. These include having a BMI of over 40, or having a BMI of 35-40 if you've already developed health complications that may improve with weight loss. Patients will need to be committed to long-term healthy changes after the surgery too.

"Recent clinical trials have shown that in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity, metabolic surgery is more effective than any other available therapy," says Rubino. "Currently, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and international guidelines recommend metabolic surgery be considered to treat type 2 diabetes patients and those with a BMI of 30 or over. However, only 0.2% or less of eligible patients have access to such surgery."

Who shouldn't have the surgery?

A number of factors can deem people unsuitable for surgery too, including: "People who don't suffer from severe obesity or its complications. Bariatric surgery is generally safe but this doesn't mean it's an appropriate or proportionate approach to deal with less severe overweight levels, where lifestyle changes have been shown to prevent progression toward severe obesity or diabetes in many patients," says Rubino.

"Also, people who are candidates for surgery but would be unsafe to operate on. Though bariatric surgery is less life-threatening than obesity or diabetes, it's still major surgery and requires general anaesthesia," he adds. "And people with conditions that can undermine compliance with nutritional supplementation. Bariatric surgery can alter the absorption of certain vitamins and micronutrients, so patients need to rigorously take nutrient supplements, lifelong."

See the rest here:
What is weight-loss surgery and when do you need it? - Wales Online

Our Lady of the Lakes surgical weight loss program was named a Comprehensive Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program, a joint program of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery.

Our Lady of the Lake has held this accreditation since 2010. Accreditation verifies that the program at Our Lady of the Lake meets the highest standards for patient safety and quality of care, according to a news release.

In addition to the program reaccreditation, Dr. Mark Hausmann and Dr. Brent Allain with Our Lady of the Lake Physician Group Surgeons Group of Baton Rouge were also designated as verified surgeons by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program.

Receiving this accreditation demonstrates our commitment to providing our patients with the most innovative weight loss surgery options along with compassionate, personalized care and comprehensive support services, said Dr. Mark Hausmann, medical director of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Service at Our Lady of the Lake. Our Lady of the Lakes skilled team provides patients with the surgical services needed to help them achieve their weight loss goals and maintain them long-term.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates about 93 million adults in the United States are affected by obesity and that number continues to increase. The disease of obesity increases the risks of morbidity and mortality because of the diseases and conditions that are commonly associated with it, such as type II diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, among other health risks, the release said.

To learn more about weight loss services at Our Lady of the Lake, visit ololrmc.com/weightloss.

Success! An email has been sent with a link to confirm list signup.

Error! There was an error processing your request.

Link:
Our Lady of the Lake receives national accreditation for weight loss program - The Advocate