Weight Loss at LifeSpring Wellness

At LifeSpring Wellness, we promote attainment of a healthy weight as part of a movement toward wellness.  A fit, trim body has many benefits, not the least of which is a feeling of well-being and confidence.  While some people struggle with too much weight for most of their lives and need an intensive program, others simply overindulge or under exercise for a while and need temporary tactics to return to their ideal weight.  We have a program for the client who wants to naturally and safely remove a few pounds as well as a program that will allow a client to lose 15 to 100 lbs or more.  Our intensive weight loss option features a program for seniors, diabetics, and teenagers as well as those who do not fit either of those categories. 

Obesity Causes and Statistics

The prevalence of obesity has escalated rapidly in the United States, making this condition a major public health burden.  The most recent population statistics indicate that 66.3 percent of U.S. adults are overweight and 32.2 percent are obese.  The problem of obesity is affecting our youth at ever increasing levels.  Some experts warn that the current generation of those under 20 years of age may be the first to have a life expectancy less than that of their parents.   Obesity has been linked to conditions such as coronary heart disease, hormonally-dependent cancers (i.e. breast, endometrial, colon), stroke, diabetes, and atherosclerosis.

The basic cause of obesity is an imbalance between caloric intake and energy expenditure; but the reason for the imbalance is not always clear.  Some people gain weight easily while others seem to never put on a ounce of unwanted fat.  Many times, there are more than one cause affecting an individual.  Causes can include:

• Increased intake or high fat intake
• Inactivity or little exercise
• Low metabolic rate (using fewer calories for basic life functions)
• Genetics or heredity
• Medical conditions
• Endocrine imbalances
• Psychological disturbances
• Pharmacological substances

Abdominal or central obesity is especially dangerous and should be considered a medical condition that requires intervention.  The intervention, however, is totally in the control of the individual experiencing it, as there are no magic pills to reverse the condition.  Nonetheless, the benefits of intervention on the part of an overweight individual are impressive. A 10 percent loss in body weight reduces the risk of many obesity related diseases, such as hyperlipidemia, and type two diabetes.  So, it is worthwhile to find an effective program.

When you are ready for action.....

Weight loss is successful when a person becomes committed to lose the weight and understands what foods add weight.  Most people have operated under the assumption that the food pyramid is a sufficient guide to eating.  But, actually, following the food pyramid can add many pounds for some people.  The truth is, different programs work for different people.  We start with metabolic typing then discuss what healthy foods are the most appealing.  Some people choose some healthy meal replacements, some choose only fresh prepared foods, and other choose to try a raw vegan program for detoxification along with weight loss.  Generally, weight loss of 2 to 5 pounds per week is experienced when the program is followed.     

Let me be clear, weight loss is not complicated.  If you want the "formula" for weight loss, I am happy to share it with you for free, right here and now.  Limit your carbohydrate consumption to 120 grams or less per day.  Be sure to consume 90 grams of low fat protein per day, and limit your fat intake to 30 grams per day.  Consume vitamins, minerals, and healthy omega 3 fatty acids every day.  Be sure to consume fewer calories than would be required to maintain your current weight.  For most people, this means that they will eat very little in the way of flour products, cereals and sugar.  Exercise accelerates metabolism and assists the body to build muscle, thereby eventually allowing the body to maintain a desired weight. So, if you are a person who just wants to know how to get it done, you now know. 

However, these methods alone do not result in long lasting weight loss for many people.  So some further investigation is needed.  The initial nutritional coaching session will identify what things need to be investigated in order to devise a plan that meets your specific requirements.  Changes in eating habits are required if you have tried losing weight and keeping it off with no success.  Our initial plan will identify some of those changes and help us discover what other changes must happen.