Alan (not his real name) has struggled with his weight for years. Despite trying various weight loss diet plans, he hasn’t successfully maintained his ideal weight or found a diet plan to stick to. Sound familiar? Many people may be determined to lose weight by changing their diet but may not know where to begin. Here are three tips on how to start a healthy diet journey.
Set clear goals
Setting clear goals is crucial for keeping yourself on track. While it can be tempting to make grand plans, it’s important to remember that the more specific and focused your goals are, the more likely you are to achieve them. One helpful method for goal-setting is to use the SMART Goals framework: make sure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, instead of simply resolving to “lose weight,” set a specific goal like “lose 4kg in one month by eating healthily and exercising three times a week.” Research has shown that setting clear goals can significantly boost performance; a study published by the American Psychological Association found that people who set goals increased their performance by 30% compared to their peers. So get specific with your diet goals!
Create a support system
Lack of support is a common reason people struggle to achieve their goals. That’s why enlisting a buddy to support and motivate you on your journey can be helpful. Your buddy could be a partner, family member, friend, or professional (like a dietitian or health coach!). Although some may be able to do it alone, having someone who understands your experience can be valuable. Research has shown that people with the support of a friend who has successfully lost weight are more effective at reducing their weight. And, Naluri dietitians are always here to be a part of your support system and help you along the way.
Get the correct information
There’s no shortage of diet advice available online, but it’s important to remember that every person is unique and may respond differently to different diets. It’s best to consult a registered dietitian who can provide reliable and personalised advice. Naluri lessons also cover a wide range of topics related to food and nutrition. Doing your research before starting any diet is crucial, as it can help you avoid extreme dieting or the cycle of yo-yo dieting. You can make informed decisions about your health and well-being by seeking accurate information.
The new year is an excellent opportunity to start anew and refocus on your journey to better health. Remember that good health is a valuable asset and can be achieved through a healthy diet. Let’s strive to make positive changes impacting our lives for years.
This article was brought to you by Naluri Dietitians. Naluri empowers you to develop healthy lifestyle habits, achieve meaningful health outcomes, and be healthier and happier through personalised coaching, structured programmes, self-guided lessons, and health tools and devices. Download the Naluri App today or contact hello@naluri.life for more information on utilising digital health coaching and therapy to become a happier, healthier you.