READ: Why do people struggle with weight loss?
Getting fit and healthy is a Herculean task for many.
Proof of that is the 18 million Filipinos categorized as obese and overweight in the 2017 report produced by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) for Asia Roundtable on Food Innovation for Improved Nutrition (ARoFIIN).
In the same report, it was estimated that the country will have to shell out 500 million to 1 billion dollars to treat Obesity-related problems if nothing is done to prevent it.
The question now is, why are the numbers growing despite numerous campaigns for a healthy lifestyle? Why are people still struggling to get into shape? Fitness vlogger and trainer Julian Roxas sheds some light on the issue.
1. Wrong goals
"Admittedly, we often have shallow reasons on why we want to lose weight: 'My sister is getting married and I need to fit in my gown' or 'I want to look good wearing so and so,'" begins Julian.
"if you have a dream or goal then you must have a reason as to why you want to achieve these dreams. These dreams must be bigger than the general public so you won't fail,” he advises.
2. Quick fixes
Getting rid of your extra weight is not going to happen by waving a magic wand!
Instead of buying a fad diet book or a pill to melt the fat away, just find what works for you and stick to it.
3. Patient, not!
Patience is a virtue, which is what you need in order to achieve your dream body. So don't give up nor feel frustrated if it seems like your progress is a bit slow.
"Progress is progress. Continue with your weight loss program and celebrate even how small your progress is every week."
4. Existing medical condition
One thing that people sometimes overlook in their attempt to lose weight is that perhaps there's an underlying medical condition unknown to them hindering them from their goal.
Among the conditions that may affect weight loss are hypothyroidism and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). That is why it's important to seek medical advice from a physician.
There go some of the reasons people struggle shedding off that extra pound. Now that they've been identified, you can make the necessary adjustments and hopefully make it easier to win in your battle against your excess weight.