Crash Dieting Guide (Pt2)- Alternatives to Crash Diets

Keeping in mind that it's not possible to lose all of the unwanted pounds you've gained overnight, it only stands to reason that it should also take some time to lose that weight permanently, and also keep it off in the years to come. Crash dieting may well not be the best option for you, so here are some alternatives to a crash diet:

Sensible Alternatives to Crash Diets

- Increasing water intake: Too often dieters dismiss the importance of water, which is necessary for good health at any time, but even more so when dieting. Depending on the amount of sugary drinks you consume, replacing them with water every day is enough to cause a ten pound weight loss in one month without doing anything else. Just imagine what would happen if you added exercise, decreased your carbohydrate intake, and ate low-fat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals.

- Seeking professional guidance: Your doctor should have plenty of advice and information about sensible weight loss, or will be able to refer you to a dietician who does. Many community and recreation centers also offer free or low-cost programs for those interested in becoming healthy through learning about the best foods to eat for weight loss along with much emphasis on exercising.

- Setting reasonable goals: Setting smaller, more manageable weight loss goals sets yourself up for success, as opposed to making unrealistic expectations and becoming discouraged when you don't lose as much as you had hoped. A good rule of thumb to follow is 10 to 20% of your starting body weight, and if necessary, break that down into smaller goals aiming for no more than 15 pounds lost per month unless you're under the care of a doctor.

Smart Crash Dieting?

While smart crash dieting may at first seem like an oxymoron, it is actually possible to lose pounds quickly and keep them from creeping back on the minute you stop following the diet, and also protect your health in the process. The best way to avoid any possible negative effects of crash dieting is to incorporate healthy lifestyle choices, ensuring an even counterbalance.

While it's true that some crash diets are indeed effective in terms of quick weight loss, combining some of their best points along with sensible eating, physical exercise, and avoiding stress are just a few of the ways to keep yourself feeling your absolute best despite the drastic drop in calories.

Meditation and relaxation techniques are always important, but even more so while dieting. Try learning a few yoga poses, or simply make sure to take some time for yourself to unwind, relax, regroup, and make sure your health isn't ever being compromised while dieting.

Adding just a half hour of some type of cardiovascular exercise to your routine every day, even in 15 minute increments if necessary, is enough to boost your metabolism, essentially making it easier for your body to lose weight. Cardio exercises are any that raise the heart rate, sending vital oxygen-rich blood to both the heart and lungs.

Walking is perhaps the best form of exercise, especially for beginners, as it's easy on the joints, can be done anywhere at anytime, and doesn't require any special equipment other than a decent pair of shoes.

See also: Crash Diet