Posted - August 18, 2011

Lifestyle Changes: Healthy vs. Unhealthy Activities

Losing weight and maintaining weight loss requires lifestyle changes, even if you are thinking about having stomach bypass or another type of bariatric surgery in Dallas. How you live determines your choices, and when it comes to weight loss this includes the types of foods you eat and how much physical activity you fit in each day. Having a healthy lifestyle involves spending more time doing things that are good for your health, and less time doing things that are detrimental to your health.

Activities and behaviors that can be associated with an unhealthy lifestyle include drinking alcohol, eating fast foods, eating junk foods, not getting enough sleep, spending too much time watching television, devoting too much time in front of the computer, and sitting at a desk too long without getting in physical activity. These activities on their own are not necessarily horrible for you, but can be if they are not done in moderation.

On the other hand, examples of behaviors and activities that contribute to a healthy lifestyle are participating in cardio/aerobic exercise, engaging in strength training, preparing healthy meals and snacks, tracking your calories, getting enough sleep, reading nutrition labels, handling stress in a healthy manner, and being physical active with everyday activities, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking instead of driving, etc. Many of these habits can be achieved in small increments. Instead of devoting yourself to a plethora of healthy habits all at once try incorporating them one at a time.

If you spend more time on the first set of activities and less on the second set, then it’s time to reevaluate your lifestyle and make some changes. Keep in mind that changing bad habits can take some time, especially if you’ve had them for a while. If you have had stomach bypass or another type of bariatric surgery, you’ll need to make positive lifestyle changes in order to maintain your weight loss long term.

 


ATTENTION patients of Dr. Al-Kalla

Dr. Al-Kalla will be leaving Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas at the end of July. If you would like continue as his patient, please let us know and we can assist in getting your medical records transferred.

You may also choose to stay with Weight Loss Specialists of North Texas and we’ll gladly transfer your care to another provider on staff.

Thank you.