Wellness, Weight Loss & Smoking Cessation

Most of us know being overweight and smoking are not healthy, but few of us know how to address these issues. Success is more likely achieved for losing weight and smoking cessation when there is a specific plan, identifiable goals, and a support system in place prior to deciding to make a long term change. Altering eating habits and discontinuing smoking both have well documented physical and mental benefits.

Weight loss involves taking in fewer calories than one burns up. It is important to incorporate a regular exercise program, which helps increase calories burned up and contributes to the overall health of an individual. The American Heart Association recommends “at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least 5 days per week,” or “at least 25 minutes of vigorous activity 3 days per week; and “moderate to high intensity muscle-strengthening at least 2 days per week.” In addition to increasing physical activity, a healthy diet that incorporates healthy choices is essential. Food choices should be nutritional, accessible, enjoyable, affordable, and come from various sources.

Alternative methods of weight loss including diet pills, fad diets, and starvation should be discouraged, because they may be detrimental and generally do not produce long term benefits. It is important to consult a trained healthcare when choosing medication or surgical alternatives for weight loss. The healthcare professional can help educate a person about the benefits and risks associated with these methods. Certain individuals, such as those with metabolic or weight-related problems, may be better candidates for surgical or medication options used in conjunction with proper nutrition and exercise.

Discontinuation of smoking also offers a multitude of options including pills, patches, gums, lozenges, sprays, electronic devices, and medication. Most of these items help curb the body’s craving for nicotine and ease withdrawal symptoms associated with smoking. Discussing options with a healthcare provider will aid a person’s understanding of the risks and benefits of these alternatives. There are certain precautions people should be aware of regarding nicotine regalement products; these include risks for certain health related conditions such as pregnancy, high blood pressure, heart related disease, lung or breathing problems, and metabolic problems like diabetes. There are also medication choices that help deter the craving and lessen the withdrawal from smoking. These medications also carry inherent risks and side effects that a person needs to understand before using.

Smoking cessation, like weight loss, involves a conscious decision to make a lifestyle change, and involves developing a specific plan, goals, and establishing a support system. It is generally advisable to choose a specific date to quit, a day that may hold special significance. A successful plan and goals include getting rid of any tobacco products being saved in case of emergency, keeping hard candy or gum on hand (sugar free preferred), and becoming part of a support group. It helps to notify family, friends and co-workers about the decision to stop smoking so they can provide encouragement and support. Keep a phone number on hand for a 24 hour “hot line” or friend to call during times when support is needed.

Weight loss and smoking cessation are complex issues that should have a definable plan that will produce a lifestyle change. The plan should involve consultation with a healthcare professional knowledgeable in the area, and under certain instances such as medication or surgery, provide direct supervision. Ultimately making a conscious decision to change involves commitment, dedication, and establishing a support system. The long term benefits of maintaining a healthy weight and giving up smoking have been correlated with less illness and improved longevity.

Most of us know being overweight and smoking are not healthy, but fewer of us know how to change these issues. Success is more likely achieved for losing weight and smoking cessation when there is a specific plan, identifiable goals, and a support system in place prior to deciding to make a long term change. Altering eating habits and discontinuation of smoking both have well documented physical and mental benefits.

Weight loss involves taking in fewer calories than a person burns up. It is important to incorporate an exercise program on a regular basis which helps increase calories burned up and contribute to the overall health of an individual. The American Heart Association recommends “at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity at least 5 days per week,” or “at least 25 minutes of vigorous activity 3 days per week; and “moderate to high intensity muscle-strengthening at least 2 days per week.” In addition to increasing physical activity, a healthy diet that incorporates healthy choices is essential. Food choices should be nutritional., accessible, enjoyable, affordable, and come from various sources.

Alternative methods of weight loss including diet pills, fad diets, and starvation should be discouraged because they may be detrimental and generally do not produce long term benefits. It is important to consult a trained healthcare when choosing medication or surgical alternatives for weight loss. The healthcare professional can help educate a person about the benefits and risks associated with these methods. Certain individuals such as those with metabolic or weight-related problems may be better candidates for surgical or medication options used in conjunction with proper nutrition and exercise.

Discontinuation of smoking also offers a multitude of options including pills, patches, gums, lozenges, sprays, electronic devices, and medication. Most of these items help curve the body’s craving for nicotine and the withdrawal symptoms by replacing the source provided by smoking. Discussing options with a healthcare provider will aid a person’s understanding of the risks and benefits of these alternatives. There are certain precautions people should be aware of regarding nicotine regalement products including risks for certain health related conditions such as pregnancy, high blood pressure, heart related disease, lung or breathing problems, and metabolic problems like diabetes. There are also medication choices that help deter the craving and lessen the withdrawal form smoking. These medications also carry inherent risks and side effects that a person needs to understand before using.

Smoking cessation, like weight loss, involve a conscious decision to make a lifestyle change that involves developing a specific plan, goals, and establishing a support system. It is generally advisable to choose a specific date to quit; a day that may hold special significance. A successful plan and goals include getting ride of any items being saved in case of emergency, keeping hard candy or gum on hand (sugar free preferred), and becoming part of a support group. Notify family, friends and co-workers about the decision to stop smoking so they can provide encouragement and support. Keep a phone number on hand for a 24 hour “hot line” or friend to call during times when support is needed.