DARE TO COMPARE ?

Many of us go through this, and many of us concede to it. The need to compare ourselves to others in our Weight Loss Groups. While many of these questions are challenging, they are yet to set the mark for where YOU are to be in your journey.  1. Just how fast will I lose the weight?  2. Why do men lose faster than women?  3. I had the same surgery as her, why is she losing more than me?  There are many differences.  Body Fat Distribution  Caloric Intake  Exercise Routines  Metabolic Rates  Genetics  Medications Taken  Most of us women are either pear shaped or apple shaped. Men generally are bigger in their waist. Fat distribution does determine in most cases the rate of which one will lose. Those with more fat in their middle loose quicker, while those carrying weight in their bottoms and hips lose somewhat slower. Does not mean you will not get to goal, it just means that the fat stored in these area is harder to burn.  Studies show that those that do monitor their caloric intake, and round out their fuel stores with comparable exercise do tend to lose weight more aggressively.  I have also seen those that eat more simple carbs, rather than complex carbs struggle with weight loss. Simple carbs raises insulin, which causes fat to go back to their fat cells and accumulate.  We all know how important protein is. Balancing a diet with high protein, low fat and complex carbs, along with exercise does promote weight loss and muscle mass growth. I say it all the time; you must exercise with this lifestyle. It must be a part of your life forever.  Hormones and Genetics do play a role in weight loss. The need to satisfy hunger and the burning of energy stored are all factors in weight loss. Any variation of changes can cause weight loss to slow.  Medications for blood pressure, diabetes, and depression, can hinder weight loss. If you are taking any of these drugs, it is always best to discuss with your prescribing doctor to see how to manage this.  It all boils down to this, We are all individuals . We are unique in our own right .Each of us are going to lose at our own rate and with our own determination and desire.  If we look at all the factors above, monitor our diets and exercise. Change the things we can, and for those genetic or or hormonal issues - keep those in check.  Stop comparing yourselves to others. Be proud of where you are, where you came from and where you are going. You will lose the weight. You must tell yourselves daily that this is your time, and you are going to do this. I hope this helps you . This is an issue I see so often and just want each and everyone of you to be the very best you can and win the fight against Obesity. Own your weight loss .. it is YOURS !!  Have a great week ,  Tink

Great post, Nat...thanks!  :)

Excellent and timely reminders, Nat! Weight is such a "fussy" thing and we need to remember to just keep our eye on the prize - long term health and happiness.

Great post.  Thanks for the reminder that we are all different and unique (personally...I like the unique part - hehe)