"New year, new me," that's the one line people tend to vow to themselves every time a new year kicks in. But as much as we want to stick to a rigid diet program, the amount of stress linked to our job and personal lives get in the way of our goals. Thus, our frustrations over not keeping it all together on a balanced pace often result to us binging an entire plate of carbohydrates.
Until now, there is still no foolproof method in losing the extra fat in our system. But for those who are aiming to be at their best shape in the coming months, experts are suggesting that the goal is not to focus on staying thin. Instead, finding a best exercise program that you enjoy alongside a well-balanced diet should be the primary goal.
"When starting a new diet program, participants should consider not only weight loss as a goal but also a reduction in associated health risk factors," explains Dr. Conrad Earnest, lead co-author of the study and researcher at the Exercise & Sport Nutrition Lab at Texas A&M University.
"Our research shows that the best way to both lose weight and improve health is a synergistic approach to both diet and exercise that includes aerobic and strength training."
The study compared weight loss programs among 133 overweight sedentary women and found that prioritising both diet and exercise is the most effective method in battling weight loss.
When it comes to the end result, the study found that the women who were placed into treatment groups for 12 weeks all lost only a "significant" amount of body weight. While the other participants who took part on a diet and exercise program found a "marked improvement" in their cholesterol, extra belly fat, and triglyceride levels.
Dr. Ernest puts emphasis on the fact that while the study found that the two groups of women lost a significant amount of body weight, the reduction of risk factors should also be celebrated. Women should not only obsess about fitting into their skinny jeans. Being mindful of their internal body system matters too and must not be taken for granted.
To start being motivated, Dr. Ernest suggests that a person should begin with an exercise routine that is manageable. If that works, continue with what he/she is most likely to stick with in the long run.
"You'll also benefit from the fact that adding exercise to a healthy diet or diet program improves health and sets the stage for weight maintenance later on," he adds.
