Slimming Advice - The Basics

By Dietitian, Juliette Kellow BSc RD

Get your slimming campaign off on the right foot with expert advice from Dietitian, Juliette Kellow. Here she tells you how to avoid the six slimming slip-ups that can sabotage your success.

1. I’ll lose a stone in the next two weeks

For safe and effective weight loss you should allow around six weeks to lose a stone. Very low-calorie diets that result in rapid weight loss may leave you short of essential nutrients and will limit your choice so much that you’ll quickly get bored and give up.

2. I’ll never eat chocolate again

Ban any food and you’ll make it even more tempting with the result that you’ll end up overindulging as you try to curb your craving. It’s far more realistic to simply reduce the amount you eat – that might mean cutting down from two bars a day to one a day, or having chocolate just once a week instead of several times.

3. I’m going to be a size 8

You don’t have to look like Kylie or Kate Moss to be slim. We all have different sizes and shapes and most women will struggle to fit into a size-8 outfit. Instead, focus on setting a realistic target weight for you – and enjoy whatever size that makes you!

4. I’m going to cook everyday

There’s no need to turn yourself into a Domestic Goddess simply because you want to lose weight. Accept the fact that there will be times when you don’t have the time or inclination to cook and instead make the most of quick and easy dishes such as low-fat ready meals, beans on toast, jacket potatoes with tuna and salad and veggie stir fries.

5. I’ll go to the gym every day

Chances are you won’t have the time or energy to take up residence at your local gym and soon stop going completely as a result. Instead, see the gym as just one of the many ways you can build exercise into your daily life.

6. I’ll do it on my own

Good support is a vital component of any successful weight loss plan so prepare to ask for help and encouragement, whether that’s from a friend, partner or Weight Loss Resources.