Kicking off your weight loss can be tricky, but seeking advice from professionals will make it easier to get started.
A doctor has shared five tips to follow to start losing weight and achieving your fitness goals.
Professor Franklin Joseph, from Dr Frank’s weight loss clinic, emphasised that sustainable results come from manageable changes.
He said: “The key to sustainable weight loss is consistency and practicality. Extreme measures may yield quick results, but they’re rarely sustainable.”
Prioritising protein will help with weight loss
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His approach centres on building habits that seamlessly integrate into daily routines, eliminating the need for restrictive diets and gruelling workout plans. Professor Joseph’s first recommended habit focuses on protein consumption at every meal.
He explained: “Protein is your ally when it comes to weight loss. It keeps you feeling fuller for longer, stabilises blood sugar levels, and prevents muscle loss during calorie reduction.”
He recommended incorporating lean proteins like chicken, fish, eggs, and plant-based alternatives such as tofu or lentils into your meals.
The second habit focuses on the importance of morning hydration, as “many people mistake thirst for hunger”.
“Drinking water before meals can naturally reduce the amount of food you eat,” the expert said. He advised keeping a water bottle handy and aiming for at least two litres daily.
The third key habit revolves around strategic meal planning which will help you to prevent overeating.
“Knowing what you’ll eat prevents impulsive decisions that lead to overeating or unhealthy choices,” Professor Joseph advised.
Meal planning doesn’t require extensive kitchen time, even a basic weekly outline can be effective. The expert also recommended keeping healthy snacks readily available.
“Stock up on nuts, fruits, or yoghurt for moments when hunger strikes. These options will keep you on track without guilt,” he said.
This practical approach helps maintain consistent healthy eating habits without requiring complex preparation.
The fourth habit focuses on sustainable exercise that avoids burnout.
Profession Joseph continued: “Consistency beats intensity. Even a 30-minute walk or light strength training session can support weight loss when paired with a proper diet.
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Find an exercise regime you enjoy
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“If you hate running, don’t run. Try dancing, hiking, or yoga instead. It’s about movement, not punishment.”
The fifth habit consists of finding a flexible, mindful approach to eating habits. He said: “Rigid diets often fail because they’re unsustainable. Instead, focus on progress, not perfection.”
He highlighted the importance of mental well-being in weight loss success. Mindful eating, which involves paying attention to hunger and satiety cues, helps build a healthier relationship with food.
“It’s okay to indulge occasionally,” Professor Joseph noted. “What matters is what you do most of the time, not once in a while.”