Setting Weight Loss Goals

Posted: Nov 10 in Weight Loss Blog by Staff

Many people who wish to lose weight do not set realistic or attainable weight loss goals, and then feel upset or disappointed when they can’t reach their goal weight. Setting realistic goals will make it more likely that you successfully reach your weight loss goals.

First, you need to determine whether or not you actually need to lose weight. Three simple measurements can help you figure this out. If your BMI is higher than 25, if you are a woman with a waist larger than 35 inches or a waist-to-hip ratio greater than .8, or if you are a man with a waist larger than 40 inches or a waist-to-hip ratio greater than 1, you probably need to lose weight. Your doctor can help you figure out just how much you should lose.

Next, you want to set a realistic goal. For healthy long-term weight loss, doctors often recommend losing 1 to 2 pounds per week using a combination of dietary changes and exercise. Set your goal with this in mind.

Finally, you want your goals to be specific. Decide exactly how much weight you want to lose and the time frame in which you want to lose it, and then list what steps you are going to take to accomplish this weight loss.

If you are not just overweight but very obese, you may be eligible for bariatric obesity surgery in Naples. Speak with your doctor to see whether you qualify, and to learn more about the potential risks and benefits of bariatric surgery in Naples. This type of surgery will require you to make permanent lifestyle changes, but can result in significant weight loss.