New Thinking About Weight Loss
Replacing BMI with Best Weight
If you have looked up your height and weight on a BMI (body mass index) chart to determine how much you should weigh, you might want to consider a new way of thinking.
I like what the Canadian Obesity Network and leading obesity researcher Dr. Arya Sharma have suggested. This is your “Best Weight” which is defined as whatever weight you can achieve while still living the healthiest lifestyle possible while still having fun. If you are overweight, at some point you will not be able to eat less, exercise more AND still have fun.
Top 3 Ways to Achieve Your Best Weight
It is not about the number on the scale
Focus on restoration of health and maximizing quality of life. Minimize a fixation on numbers on the scale as much as possible. Focus on increasing your energy levels, improving mood as well as increasing vitamins, minerals and other key nutrients. Also focus on reducing joint pain, less need for medication, better digestion, and healthier blood pressure, blood cholesterol levels and blood sugars.
It is not about calories in versus calories out
The diet industry would have you believe that you can weigh whatever you want if you simply eat less and exercise more. Your weight is a reflection of a complex list of factors above and beyond your food and activity factors. Also important are genetics, family history, gender, age, body composition, sleep habits, stress levels and more. Remember that some factors we can change while others are factors we have little control over.
It is not about giving up fun and flexibility
Weight management experts Dr. Arya Sharma and Dr. Yoni Freed-hoff suggest focusing on your best weight, which is defined as whatever weight you can achieve while living the healthiest lifestyle possible and still having fun and flexibility. At some point you will not be able to eat less, exercise more and still enjoy a great life. At that point you are trying to achieve a weight that is under where you should be. The words fun and flexibility are essential. Living fully is indeed about a mix of healthful and soulful choices.
About Andrea Holwegner
CEO, Registered Dietitian, Counseling Practice Director & Professional Speaker
Andrea the «Chocoholic Nutritionist» is founder and CEO of Health Stand Nutrition Consulting Inc. since 2000. She is an online nutrition course creator, professional speaker and regular guest in the media. Andrea is the recipient of an award by the Dietitians of Canada: The Speaking of Food & Healthy Living Award for Excellence in Consumer Education....Read more