Are you trying to lose significant weight – or even thinking about trimming some extra pounds?
Well, we have some good news: Now that spring is fully underway (with summer not far behind) you have a chance to do just that, while also making a real impact on your overall physical and mental health.
According to Longstreet Clinic Center for Weight Management surgeons Dr. Robert Richard, FACS, and Dr. Eric J. Velazquez, MBA, FACS, FASMBS, the warm and inviting weather we’re now experiencing in north Georgia offers a perfect opportunity to both shed a few pounds and invigorate your day.
“This time of year, the weather is so much nicer. And so many of us spend a lot of time inside, in the office. So, now you can take advantage and try to get outside,” Dr. Velazquez said. “Take your kids to the park. Go out to the parking lot during a break and do some work. Do your workouts outside. Ride your bike.”
These simple alterations to your routine can make a big difference in the long term. Dr Velazquez says he benefits from choices like this as well.
“I get outside for lunch. I finish with consultations in my office and I walk to the hospital,” Dr. Velazquez said. “Those few minutes outside add to my step count, and it exposes me to the sunlight.”
Exposure to sunlight (though be wary of over-exposure and protect your skin with sunscreen) promotes vitamin D production in your body, which boosts your mood and metabolism levels – which can help you to lose weight.
When you combine those factors with other small choices, you will notice a quick change to your health.
“A big part of staying healthy is being active,” Dr. Richard said. “That doesn’t necessarily mean you have to get to the gym or do intense workouts, but it does mean you need to move around frequently and avoid being sedentary.”
So, while you’re walking outside consider some other things you can do to affect your weight – such as:
- Avoiding sugary drinks: Replace soda, energy drinks, and fruit juices with water, which can negate hundreds of calories.
- Avoid simple carbs: Eat more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which make you feel fuller and help your body to be more efficient.
- Use smaller plates: This trick helps control portions without making you feel restricted.
- Cook/prep ahead: Take a half day and cook or ready a supply of healthy meals and snacks so that you avoid fast food or easy meal options – which are more typically loaded with extra calories.
In fact, the British Heart Foundation notes that, “reducing 100-200 calories daily, walking more, or drinking water instead of soda – can lead to sustainable fat loss of about 1–2 pounds per week.
There are other small changes you can make to help promote weight loss – including prioritizing sleep (7-9 hours a night), eliminating distracted eating (not staring at a screen allows you to better notice when you begin to feel full), and eating slowly (it takes time for your stomach to relay to your brain that it is full; eating fast can trick you into over-eating).
That said, getting outside and enjoying the warm weather is a great start.
“If you want to lose weight, try to find more physical activities. A lot of those things can be taken advantage of now that the weather is getting better,” Dr. Velazquez said. “Just remember to take allergy medicine because the pollen is pretty bad!”
No matter if you need more tips like those above or believe you need more targeted help, the caring professionals at the Center for Weight Management are here to help. Providers like Dr. Velazquez and Dr. Richard tailor proven weight loss solutions to your specific needs, and the results help you maximize your success. Contact us today or call 770-534-0110 where one of our weight loss specialists is ready to assist you.
