Combination Nation-- Flexibility as a Weight Loss Tool

So far, we've discussed 3 weight loss options:  healthier food choices, portion control, & physical activity. The final option is to actually combine the above strategies. Using a combination approach tends to be the easiest & most sustainable method as well as offering varied health benefits.

You can also tailor this approach to meet your lifestyle & changing needs. This can help diminish feelings of deprivation (which often derail many diets). For example:,
- One day, you may choose to eat a smaller amount of something rich; skip a calorie-laden drink; & add in some extra physical activity to help balance out the day's extra calories.
- On a different day, you may choose healthier foods so you can eat more while maintaining your regular level of physical activity.

Combining methods also supports the life-long healthy lifestyle choices we recommend... rather than short-term "dieting" (yo-yo or otherwise), etc.

When using this method for weight loss, it's important to honestly consider your starting point. If you're already regularly doing some (or all) of the healthy behaviors, you WILL need to increase the behavior(s) to see results.

For more tips on how to practically apply each option & the value of combining methods, check out:
- SparkPeople's 10 Habits of Unsuccessful Dieters
- Food Network's Top 10 Reasons You're Not Losing Weight
- Shape's 3 Tough Realizations to Help You Lose Weight