Take 10 steps to weight loss success In 2010
Forget the fads and ‘Take 10’ small steps to weight loss success – that is the message from dietitians to the thousands of Australians who will make losing weight their goal in 2010.
Launching the third annual Australia’s Healthy Weight Week (January 24 to 31), Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) CEO Claire Hewat said: ‘Fad and quick-fix weight loss programs often promise easy, no-effort weight loss. The reality is these programs can set people up to fail and damage their self esteem in the process.’
According to research commissioned by DAA, more than one in five Australians who are trying to lose weight are following a potentially dangerous diet from a book or magazine. And only 16 per cent are seeking professional advice from a qualified Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD).
DAA spokesperson associate professor Clare Collins said: ‘A range of approaches can help you lose weight in the short term, but making small, permanent changes that fit with your lifestyle will give you the best chance of keeping weight off in the long term.
‘An Accredited Practising Dietitian can work out the best approach to achieve your weight loss goals and help keep you motivated, especially if you hit a plateau, by helping to fine tune your approach.’
Like many people battling excess weight, Sydney-based nurse Nicole Simpson has tried many exercise and diet regimens, losing a few kilos only to regain them soon afterwards. But with the guidance of an Accredited Practising Dietitian, Nicole is now watching her portion sizes and making better food choices.
‘With the help of a dietitian you know you always have support there, and if you have a bad day, week or month they will help you get back on track and not make you feel bad for being human! I now find I have so much more energy and can walk into a shop to buy clothes – and feel great in them,’ said Nicole.
Associate Professor Collins’ ‘Take 10 in 2010’ tips for achieving or maintaining a healthy weight:
1. Eat breakfast
2. Include vegetables or salad with lunch and dinner
3. Choose fruit as a snack
4. Replace full-fat food and drinks with reduced-fat alternatives
5. Choose wholegrain foods instead of more refined foods
6. Eat smaller serving sizes by using smaller plates and cups
7. Eat slowly and stop when you are satisfied, not stuffed full
8. Eat when you genuinely feel hungry, rather than for emotional or other reasons
9. Swap sweetened drinks such as cordial, soft drink and juice with water
10. Eat your evening meals at a dinner table with the TV turned off.
For more information about Australia’s Healthy Weight Week including more ways to ‘Take 10 in 2010’ visit the below website:
www.healthyweightweek.com.au
