the REN DAO Wellness Center Blog

May 28th I gave a short talk; Why diets usually do not work and why dieting can actually lead you to gain weight. I then out lined a healthy way to maintain your optimal weight by eating the appropriate selections of foods.  

Most diets have their benefits and can lead to weight loss. Yet research shows that 90% to 95% of those on the currently popular diets regain the weight after one year.  Diets are based on restricting and restriction. Diets rely on removing and or reducing the amount of foods we eat. Usually at the cost of foods we really like or crave and by reeking havoc on our bodies metabolism. Additionally after we have reached our target weight loss or have quit the diet, there is no mechanism or support for us to maintain our weight. We regain the weight, sometimes gaining more than we started with. As noted nutritionist Sherry Lieberman says “You did not fail the diet, the diet failed you”.

With all of the diets and diet supplements out their very, few support you in reaching a realistic weight. Very few teach how to maintain a healthy weight, healthy self image and healthy lifestyle.

 When we understand a few core principles about how the body assimilates foods and manages its energy resources, it becomes easier to make wise food choices. When we decide to take responsibility for our weight management and commit to a plan of healthy eating and healthy lifestyle for life, the results are great and self-sustaining. 

[Some people have medical condition that keep then from maintaining an optimal weight. People should consult with there doctor or medical provider to evaluate there status before starting a weight loss or management program]

The primary cause for difficulty with losing weight or maintaining ones weight are:

Poor dietary choices usually include eating highly processed foods or foods high in added sugars. These foods are higher in calorie content with relatively low nutritional content. Some of these foods may be addictive in nature. These foods lead to poor blood sugar regulation, poor utilization of sugars by the cells and extra conversion of sugar to fat.