4 Elements Nutrition Consulting

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Weight Loss is Not The Best Metric

Many of the clients I see start their first session with me, stating that they wish to lose weight. When we explore this goal further, we realize that sometimes, having weight loss as the only outcome by which to measure health can in fact be a hindrance to achieving better health.
This is because body weight is impacted by so many factors, such as fluid shifts, constipation, medications, health conditions, and genetics.

What you eat can certainly help you achieve better health outcomes and longevity, but this may not necessarily be synonymous with achieving dramatic weight loss. Even a small drop in weight, and more importantly, waist circumference, can help improve health outcomes long term, and positively impact blood pressure, blood sugar, and blood fat levels.

More importantly, a fixation on weight loss, and regular weight checks on the scale can create a rollercoaster in our emotional health because it can trigger some of us to start that negative way of talking to oneself that is ultimately a source of stress and anxiety. The journey toward a healthier self does not warrant such a footing, and therefore, focussing on metrics that are more positive such as sleep quality, mood, and overall energy level as you are working on your nutrition are bound to offer a more positive outlook on the self.