HOW TO SET GOALS FOR BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION
DURING A WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM
Addressing the problem of excess weight requires a three-pronged approach: changing behavior patterns, making dietary adjustments and increasing activity level.
Individuals wishing to lose weight must be motivated enough to change habits not for a few weeks or months, but for a lifetime.
The desire to lose weight must come from within, rather than from external pressures. Choosing the right time to start a weight loss program is also important. People under stress or pressure may not be able to devote the considerable attention and effort required to make lifestyle changes.
Culled from medical research, the strategies listed below come from successful clients who have lost weight and kept it off.
These strategies help the client translate healthy eating, lifestyle changes and increased physical activity into action.
Keep these guidelines in mind as you review your members behavior modification goals.
Strategies for Success
1. Set Realistic goals. Rather than attempting to lose a specific number of pounds, make the goal the adoption of healthier eating, exercise habits and lifestyle changes. If a weight loss goal must be set, losing 10-15% of current body weight is a realistic goal to start with.IAW Action Item: Short term goals should be set and followed up by staff on a weekly basis.
2. Seek support from family and friends. Studies have shown that people who receive social support are more successful in changing their behaviors. Ask family and friends for help, whether this means keeping high-fat foods out of the house, or relieving you of some chore so that you have time to exercise. It will be easier to stick to a new eating plan if you are the person responsible for food shopping and preparation, and if everyone in the household eats the same types of foods. IAW Action Item: If possible, talk to the clients support network, friends and family, and convey to them how they can help.
3. Make changes gradually. Trying to make many changes quickly can leave one feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. Ease into exercise; do not overdo it. Incorporate low-fat eating in stages. One way to do this is to make step-wise changes in certain food items. For example, if you typically drink whole milk, switch to 2% milk, then to 1%, and then to skim. IAW Action Item: Monitor gradual changes weekly with member. Have them write down 1-2 changes they made in exercise, lifestyle and nutrition on a weekly basis.
4. Eat slowly. Many people eat more calories than are needed to satisfy their hunger because they eat too quickly. It takes about 20 minutes for the brain to recognize that the stomach is full, so slowing down helps you feel satisfied on less food. Moreover, eating slowly allows you to better appreciate the flavors and textures of your food.IAW Action Item: In food diary, have members write down time they took to eat each meal.
5. Eat three meals a day, plus snacking. Skipping meals is counterproductive. People who restrict their eating habits too rigorously often have an all or nothing approach: Once they go off their diet, they tend to abandon all efforts and find it difficult to return to healthy eating habits. You will be more successful in the long run if you give yourself permission to eat when you are hungry, eat enough nutritious low-fat foods to satisfy that hunger. Spread your calorie intake and food supplements out over the course of the day. IAW Action Item: Members should use food diary and staff should review it weekly and point out positive points and work on weaknesses.
6. Plan for exercise. Choose activities that are convenient for you to do on a regular basis, and then treat exercise like any other appointment - set a time and jot it down in your date book. IAW Action Item: Review exercise plan with member on weekly basis.
7. Record your progress. Start a food diary and exercise log to keep track of your accomplishments. Such detailed diaries may seem cumbersome to complete, but they can help you stay motivated, and reviewing the diaries can reveal any problem areas.IAW Action Item: Review food diary and exercise log on a weekly basis.
8. Evaluate your relationship to food. The situations most often associated with inappropriate eating are: habit, stress, boredom, emotions, and using food as a reward. Although eating may appear to soothe uncomfortable feelings, its effect is temporary at best and ultimately does not solve any problems. Remember, eat for nutritional reasons, not psychological reasons.IAW Action Item: Have members write down in appropriate reasons why they strayed from diet.. Review with them and point out strategies to change behavior.
9. Recall accomplishments and problem areas. Have member write some accomplishments and problematic areas during the week. Have them write their feelings and thoughts and strategize how to overcome these problem areas. Reminding members of past achievements can help them feel more confident about making the changes that will lead to weight loss and lifestyle change. IAW Action Item: Review members accomplishments and problem areas on a weekly basis.
10. Do not try to be perfect. While it is true that losing weight requires significant change in lifestyle, eating and exercise habits, not every high-fat food must be banished forever and one need not exercise vigorously every day.
Gene C.