(StatePoint) The irony of summer is that for many people, it’s the most important time of year to stay fit, but it can actually be the hardest time of year to stick to one’s diet.
“Too many weight loss plans are not designed for the reality of everyday living, especially in summer when there can be extra challenges like vacations, family barbecues and a general change of pace,” says Dr. Anthony Fabricatore, Ph.D., vice president of Research and Development at Nutrisystem.
But dieters can stay on track no matter where life takes them with these simple tips.
MAKE TIME TO EXERCISE
Daily exercise is important for weight maintenance, weight loss and general health. So don’t let your exercise routine take a vacation when you do.
Skip the shuttle bus at the amusement park and walk from attraction to attraction. At the pool? Take breaks from lounging to swim laps. Whenever there is a choice between the elevator and the stairs, take the stairs. Squeezing in just 10 minutes of physical activity here and there is beneficial.
EAT RIGHT, ALL THE TIME
The best-laid plans of dieters are often scuttled by unexpected temptation. But you can avoid being a victim of your circumstances with technologies that can help you pace your calorie intake throughout the day.
For example, dieters can turn to digital weight loss programs like NuMi by Nutrisystem. Via its “Responsive Dieting” technique, NuMi looks at an individual’s food preferences, lifestyle, metabolism, activity and weight loss goals and then takes real life into account.
NuMi adjusts according to the information you provide it, so if your spouse surprises you with chocolate chip pancakes when you were all set to whip up an egg white omelet, the rest of your day is adjusted on the fly to meet your weight loss goals.
NuMi also customizes its recommendations based on your personal quirks or circumstances, such as what’s in your fridge that day or certain dietary limitations you have. Say you want one meal of the day to be bigger than others, or you want Mexican food, Asian, or Italian, NuMi has recommendations for your palette and your weight loss goals …smart right?
“A focus on lifestyle versus dieting alone is crucial for success,” says Fabricatore, who was involved with development and testing of the product.
Start at NuMi.com and then download the app.
GET SUPPORT
Support is invaluable when you’re attempting to lose weight. Whether that means a running partner, a dieting buddy or a professional expert like a personal trainer, having someone cheer on your successes can motivate you to work harder.
Since you can’t take your traditional support network with you everywhere you go, consider seeking one-on-one feedback in the palm of your hand from the Numi Squad, a dedicated team of counselors available via live chat to provide real-time, personalized advice and encouragement seven days a week.
This summer, don’t let your lifestyle throw a monkey wrench in your long-term health and wellness goals. By making adjustments as you go, you can stay fit, healthy and happy.
