Winnipeg Fitness Coach Gabriel Patterson on the Psychology of Weight Loss ...

The latest study from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey indicates the obesity rate in the United States is almost 40 percent. Yet, the average American spends over $100,000 on health and fitness-related activities over their lifetimes.

While exercise is a critical component of weight loss, even people who hire personal trainers and incorporate cardiovascular and strength training are still missing a key element to long-term weight loss. Gabriel Patterson, Winnipeg fitness and nutrition coach states, “Understanding the thoughts and behaviors that guide our everyday eating decisions and body image is critical to losing weight and keeping it off.”

You have probably heard that your mental health is just as important as other aspects of your health. When it comes to tackling weight loss, it is even more important to consult psychologists and other mental health professionals. These specialists are trained to work with you and your lifestyle and can integrate treatment recommendations with other medical professionals, as needed.

Talking to a mental health practitioner can help you identify triggers that cause you to make unhealthy choices. They also can help evaluate you for related conditions that can contribute to weight issues, such as depression and anxiety. Like a personal trainer, a psychologist can help you develop and stick to a plan for losing weight. For example, it's easier for you're your weight loss goals when you plan out food shopping, mealtimes, and deal with negative thoughts and associations with food.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps you develop healthy new attitudes about food and use practical coping skills for managing food cravings. Exploring the root cause of overeating is critical to long-term weight loss success. In addition to enlisting the help of a licensed mental health professional, getting actively into a workout program can improve your outlook and help you regain control. Incorporating strength training into your workout can help with weight loss goals, to build lean muscle, and to get the confidence that comes with a sculpted body.

Losing weight is a constant battle for some people. Despite their efforts to exercise and eat healthy, emotional eating can sabotage even the most determined individuals. “Knowing about your triggers and behavior towards eating can help you develop and execute a plan to regain control of your weight loss goals. Enlisting the help of licensed psychologists and behavioral health professionals can boost your chances of weight loss success,” recommended Gabriel Patterson.