People don't fail diets, diets fail people

The adage "People don't fail diets, diets fail people." is very true.  Most people have been trying to lose the same ten pounds for the past ten years.  One of the biggest reasons for repeat diet failure is due to trying to lose too much weight too quickly. One should not exceed 1 - 1.5 lbs. of weight loss per week.  This is the maximum amount of weight loss that can be sustained long term.  Realistically, it is all about a baby steps approach.  Baby steps include a modest caloric reduction as well as a modest increase in physical activity.  Starting off small is key in building success with small goals.  Achieved, small goals always add up to bigger ones.  Although most dieters want pounds to fall off overnight, the truth is that their weight gain didn't happen overnight, and so a slow, sensible approach must be taken with focus on long term success.  Within every overly aggressive failed diet attempt, lies a vicious cycle doomed to repeat itself.  Very low calorie diets (VLCDs) that promote aggressive weight loss nearly always means a loss of muscle mass, where once caloric intake is again increased, then any weight lost returns, plus more.  Loss of lean muscle mass means a slower metabolism and this is the driving force behind yo-yo dieting syndrome.  It is extremely hard to "reframe" a life-long dieter's perspective on attempting weight loss. I strongly encourage my clients to embrace weight loss as a lifestyle change.  The only lifestyle changes that work, are ones that can be kept up with for the long haul. A true lifestyle change should eventually become almost brainless and automatic.  Anyone attempting weight loss that feels starved, deprived, burnt out on exercise or that they are simply trying too hard is likely taking a misguided approach. Dieters please stop the cycle of self-abuse, and mental anguish over perceived failures.  There really is a better way to living if you are willing to try something different.