Is this a good way to lose weight?
Hello Doctor, I am 21 years old, weighing 69 kg and standing 154 cm tall.
I have a large frame, and my legs and arms are quite muscular.
I have a bit of a belly and a broad back.
My current weight loss plan includes soaking in a bath for 15 minutes two days a week, swimming for two days, and trying to eat less for dinner, or replacing it with water.
If I eat a good meal with my family or consume oily foods, I take two capsules of chitosan (a complex formula) half an hour before the meal.
Is my weight loss plan effective? Could you please provide me with some professional advice or improvements? Please reply to my email...
Thank you!
Xinyi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/26
Dr. Xie Huimin reply Nutrition
Hello, Hsin-Yi; your ideal weight is 53 kg.
Taking a bath can increase your basal metabolic rate and help with calorie expenditure, but if you consume too many calories daily, it will not be effective.
You should adjust your daily caloric intake to lower the amount you consume.
Swimming is a great exercise, and you should maintain a good habit of regular exercise.
However, you should not eat after swimming, or you will just replenish the calories you burned! If you continue to exercise and notice weight loss, but then find it difficult to lose more, I recommend changing your exercise routine to include activities like running, jumping rope, playing badminton, or climbing stairs.
I do not recommend skipping dinner; if your breakfast and lunch exceed your body's caloric needs, you will not achieve weight loss.
Here are some suggestions that I hope will help you with your weight loss goals:
1.
Choose foods that are baked or steamed, and avoid fried foods.
Focus on high-fiber foods such as vegetables, fruits, brown rice, and rice bran.
2.
Eat slowly, taking one bite at a time.
3.
Even when dining out, you should still control your caloric intake, especially with foods that appear glossy, as they are likely high in calories.
The chitosan you are consuming only inhibits fat absorption, but carbohydrates and proteins in food also provide calories, so it will not help you achieve weight loss.
4.
Ensure you are adequately hydrated.
Reply Date: 2003/07/26
More Info
Your weight loss plan raises several concerns that need to be addressed to ensure you achieve your goals in a healthy and sustainable manner. At 21 years old, with a height of 154 cm and a weight of 69 kg, your Body Mass Index (BMI) is approximately 29. This categorizes you as overweight, and it’s commendable that you are seeking to make changes to improve your health.
Firstly, let’s discuss your current approach. You mentioned that you are engaging in activities like soaking in a bath for 15 minutes twice a week and swimming on two other days. While swimming is an excellent form of exercise, the frequency and duration may not be sufficient for significant weight loss. The general recommendation for adults is to engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week, which translates to about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. You might want to consider increasing the frequency and duration of your swimming sessions or incorporating other forms of exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or strength training, which can help build muscle and boost your metabolism.
Regarding your dietary habits, it’s important to focus on balanced nutrition rather than extreme calorie restriction. Skipping meals, especially breakfast, can lead to increased hunger later in the day, often resulting in overeating. Instead of replacing meals with water, aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from all food groups. This means incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats into your meals. A registered dietitian can help you create a personalized meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while promoting weight loss.
You mentioned taking chitosan (甲殼素) before meals to mitigate the effects of consuming high-calorie foods. While some studies suggest that chitosan may help reduce fat absorption, relying on supplements is not a substitute for healthy eating habits. It’s essential to focus on whole foods and portion control rather than depending on supplements to manage your weight.
Additionally, consider the psychological aspects of weight loss. It’s common to feel discouraged when results are not immediate. Setting realistic and achievable goals can help maintain motivation. Aim for a gradual weight loss of about 0.5 to 1 kg per week, which is considered safe and sustainable. Celebrate small victories along the way to keep your spirits high.
Lastly, it’s crucial to listen to your body. If you feel fatigued or unwell, it may be a sign that your current approach is too restrictive. Ensure you are getting enough nutrients to support your energy levels, especially if you are increasing your physical activity.
In summary, here are some recommendations to improve your weight loss plan:
1. Increase Physical Activity: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise each week, incorporating both aerobic and strength training exercises.
2. Balanced Diet: Focus on a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of foods. Avoid skipping meals and aim for regular, nutritious meals and snacks.
3. Limit Supplements: While chitosan may have some benefits, it should not replace healthy eating practices. Focus on whole foods instead.
4. Set Realistic Goals: Aim for gradual weight loss and celebrate small achievements to stay motivated.
5. Consult Professionals: Consider working with a registered dietitian or a certified personal trainer who can provide personalized guidance based on your individual needs.
By making these adjustments, you can create a more effective and sustainable weight loss plan that promotes overall health and well-being. Remember, the journey to weight loss is not just about the numbers on the scale but also about developing healthy habits that you can maintain for life. Good luck on your journey!
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