Some people who have tried to lose weight by taking a pill or similar product to control their appetite or burn fat have experience problems with their weight "bouncing back up" once they quit taking it. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for people who have tried to lose weight by taking a pill to lose weight very quickly initially, and then later gain the weight back and more.
A rebound in weight will typically occur when people follow restrictive diets or use medications/products to reduce their appetite or burn up fat. This is because these types of diets are not true solutions to weight loss. The effects will only last as long as you can bear the misery of a restrictive diet and/or the expense of buying the pills, the special mixture etc. When you return to the unhealthy habits that you were practicing when you put on excess weight in the first place, logically, you will return to your previous weight, and sometimes put on additional pounds.
Diets easy to abandon
It is difficult for anyone to maintain restrictive diets for very long. This type of diet may result in some weight loss initially, but it is very difficult to adhere to over the long term. Because of the restrictions, many people give up on these diets and return to their previous eating behaviors. The same thing typically happens with the pills or other products that are supposed to magically solve your weight problem without you having to make any sacrifices. These diets are, in essence, "fake solutions" because they don’t really solve anything. On the contrary, they only make losing weight more difficult, because they create a vicious circle of weight gain and loss. Not only does this take a toll on a person physically, it causes new frustrations and emotional ups and downs.
Steps to avoid rebound
Overweight and obesity should therefore always be resolved using tried and true solutions which are backed by research to prove their effectiveness over time, and which do not pose health risks. A healthy weight-loss plan should include the following components:
- A balanced and varied diet
- A daily regular exercise program
- Promotion of gradual weight loss (1-2 pounds per week)
- Guidance on weight maintenance, to avoid regaining weight
Lose weight permanently
A balanced diet should not not cause undo physical or emotional stress. It is easy to adhere to because it does not mean having to give up your favorite foods. It means including a variety of foods, eating them in the right portion size for your age and height, and preparing them in the healthiest way possible.
Participating in daily exercise is also an essential component to a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a healthy weight. A regular exercise program should not be tedious or painful. The exercise routine you choose should be enjoyable and fun.
If you make positive changes in both your eating and physical activity habits, you will be on your way to a healthier lifestyle immediately! Be patient, and wait for the results to happen over time. This will help ensure that the changes you have made will be permanent and keep you healthy for the rest of your life.
* Dr. Lara-Pantin, a nutrition specialist, is Vice President of Product Development for DrTango, Inc.
