Week 8
PLATEAUS: When Your Scale Just Seems Stuck!

Almost everyone experiences a plateau at some time in their weight loss journey, so don’t feel alone.

Don’t despair - there are some measures you can take in order to get back on track.

After the first few weeks of weight loss, which is when you will lose water weight more quickly, a safe healthy loss is ½ to 2 pounds per week. If you are not losing, or if you are gaining weight, here are some things to consider:

1. Are you keeping a journal of everything you eat, as well as how you are feeling (what is your attitude about losing weight)?
2. Are you drinking plenty of water – 6-8 glasses every day?
3. Are you paying close attention to portion control?
4. Are you working physical activity into most days every week?
5. Are you eating five servings of fruits and vegetables each day?
6. Are you beating yourself up if you have one slip?
7. Are you rewarding yourself with non-food items?
8. Do you have people in your life who are supportive of your endeavors?

Here are ways to achieve a healthy weight:

1. Fill your plate with vegetables and salad before adding meats and starch.
2. Reduce portion sizes.
3. Engage in physical activity, 30-60 minutes, 5 days a week.
4. Keep a food journal.
5. Do not skip meals; include 3 meals and one snack daily.
6. Recognize and prevent relapse.
7. Set up a good support system for yourself.
8. Focus on behavior changes as well as weight changes.

Did you know that moderate weight loss can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels and reduce blood pressure, thus lowering risk for heart disease?

So, by staying focused on factors that are within your control, by being patient, by making healthy choices and keeping a good attitude, you will continue to lose weight.

Remember, nothing tastes as good as being thin feels – and just think how much healthier you’ll be!

Lose and Win participants had a great time playing Beach Ball Volley Ball at the Downeast Family YMCA.

Lose and Win teams have completed week 7 of the 10 week program in Hancock County to lose weight and become healthier.

They have accumulated a loss of 2,565 pounds which is equivalent in weight to a 16’ Boston Whaler boat.

The “Ounce Denouncers” from Orland were the top losers for the week. The “Slim Jims” from the Ellsworth Hannaford store came in second and the “CMT Dream Team” from Coastal Med Tech won third place honors.