Yo - Yo Dieting

Yo Yo dieting is characterised by periods of weight loss followed by weight gain.

Many people find this very frustrating as they work hard at losing weight only to start gaining it again when they finish their diet.

To make any weight losses permanent it is necessary to make changes to eating habits, lifestyle and the level of physical that is taken each day. If these changes are not made the cycle of weight loss followed by weight gain will continue indefinitely.

There are a number of dangers associated with continual yo-yo dieting. These range from loss of muscle and bone density, high blood pressure and heart disease rates, liver problems, lower metabolic rate and a shortened life span.

Fortunately it is possible to break the chain of yo-yo dieting. To do this you need to start thinking long term and plan ahead for the future. Set realistic targets about weight loss and remain focussed on achieving them.

If willpower has been a problem whether on a diet or off it try and develop more of it. This may sound hard but it is a skill like any other and can be learned, there are many books and DVDs that can help you with this.

Try and form good eating habits that will last you a life time. Take your time eating your food and try eating 5-6 smaller meals through the day instead of 3 large ones. This will help control blood sugar levels and stop uncontrollable cravings, especially sugar.

One of the most important things you can do to control weight is increase the amount of physical activity that you do. Not only does this help to burn calories it also boosts the metabolism.

If you suffer from low thyroid symptoms, stress eating or late night eating you may be stuck in the middle of yo yo dieting but with the right help it can be broken.