So many illnesses and conditions contribute to a sedentary lifestyle. Bad knees, COPD and heart disease are just a few examples of health concerns that make it hard to be active, yet doctors always say the symptoms may be lessened if the patient is at a healthy weight. So if you're caring for someone whose health issues are aggravated by being overweight, how do you help them shed a few (or more) pounds? If you've, personally, lost weight, what has worked?
My husband has struggled with weight his entire adult life. He is about 35 lbs. overweight. I am a sympathetic companion on his dieting efforts. A couple of years ago, we did South Beach. The first 2 weeks are hell. However, following, I found the diet to be life changing. I lost my goal of 15 lbs. and have maintained since. Hubby, while adhering to the SB moderation at home, eats out a lot without my supervision and continues the battle. He eats at places where everything slides out of the kitchen. "What did you have to eat today, honey?" "All I had was soup." "What kind?" "Potato-bacon-cheddar with bread - no butter." "Good job?" At home, it's low fat, high protein and moderate carbs. Last night, he attacked a bag of pistchios I had bought for my nephew who loves them. (The nephew is a string bean.) Oh well... He's still a keeper.
Missy, I understand how hard it is to be active from a sedentary lifestyle. My health problems, pre-diabetes, gall stones, fatty liver, are aggravated by my weight. I am finding that walking for 1/2 hr every day, taking a low-dose asprin, and drinking Acai Berry juice helps. I have just started this about 3 weeks ago, and I've already started losing a few pounds. Because of the pre-diabetes, I do exercise more than just the walking. I do low impact exercises with a balance ball. This is to get my bloodsugar down to managable without having to go to shots or pills. I'll be praying for you.
Missy,
You will find all the information you need at www.mypyramid.gov. Planning meals and being creative are key to your success. Don't forget to check with your loved ones physician concerning food restrictions and interactions with medications. Also, allow the patient to do for themselves as much as possible. Encourage walking, even if it is just a few steps at the time.
Hello.
I have been a home health care physical therapist for 16 years. I have created a content based website that has many answers but will violate the policy here if I post it.
I have seen that the absolute best measure for weight loss (and of course the plenty of other benefits that come from doing this) is to sleep at least 8-9 hours at night (not in the day!) and to walk every hour. I don't care if that is 5 feet or 500 feet... walk every hour... walking will keep you walking!
What we eat is important as well but we are finding that sleep is the most essential component of weight loss and maintaining a healthy weight.
Marcia Oliver MSPT, CPT
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