The psychology behind weight loss

Every January “lose weight” tops almost everybody's resolution list. But, as with a lot of things, it's easier said than done. Despite the fact that most people know the difference between healthy and harmful foods obesity is still a growing health factor in the United States. Since losing weight just involves eating right and exercise, it should be simple, right? But the thing with trying to lose weight is that it's more than simply following a diet and exercise plan. For most people being overweight is as much a psychological issue as it is a health issue. If you want to lose weight, you have to understand the psychology behind losing weight, including why you are currently heavy and tips that can help you lose the weight.

Know your food triggers

Do you tend to eat when you get super stressed? Or maybe you break open a bag of cookies to celebrate when something good happens. Or do you automatically grab for some chips when you sit down to watch TV? Even if you stock up on healthy foods, if you aren't aware of why you were eating poorly, then you are bound to repeat your actions. Think about when you tend to eat the wrong foods and why. Once you know, then you can work on not doing it anymore.

Change your habits

So, now that you know you always grab a chocolate bar or piece of cake when something stressful happens you can work to change that habit. On average it takes about 23 days to break a habit. Instead of reaching for your favorite sugary treat, replace it with an apple, some berries or a handful of nuts.

Avoid all or nothing thinking

When it comes to approaching weight loss, most people have an all or nothing way of thinking. They’ll decide to try to lose weight and will adopt a strict 5 days a week exercise program and 100% healthy eating plan. They'll stick to it for a week or two and then something will happen to throw them off course. They immediately think since they slipped there's no sense and will instantly fall back to their old way of living. They key to remember is that nobody is perfect: you may slack off on your exercise or have too much junk food. Acknowledge the slip, then get back on the program. Slipping up isn't a reason to toss the whole exercise and healthy eating plan.

Little things add up

With that being said, you also don't want to fall into the mind set of “just one chocolate bar won't hurt.” It won't but if you have these moments every day or so, then it could all add up. This is a great way for your brain to trick you into thinking that you are eating healthy when really you aren't.

Reality TV isn't all that realistic

You're trying to lose weight and you're having a tough time. You love watching weight lose reality TV shows, but they depress you: you don't understand why those people seem to have no problem dropping the pounds. So you say the heck with it, there's no sense trying. The thing to remember about reality TV weight loss shows is that the contestants have the 24 hour support of professionals. You probably don't. So watch those shows to get tips on eating and exercise, not to compare your journey with theirs. Because it's completely different.

Losing weight can be a battle. Trying to figure out what's healthy to eat can seem almost impossible. Never mind attempting to avoid your favorite naughty foods. But understanding some of the mind-sets that can help you to be successful can make weight loss a lot easier.

Guest blogger Vern Marker enjoys blogging about psychology topics while he is pursuing his dream in the forensic psychology graduate program.

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