There is a six-week period in the United States that is known as the most common time for weight gain – the period between Thanksgiving and the New Year. Family practitioner and weight-loss specialist Rekha Sharma, M.D., recommends getting a head start on weight loss, before New Year resolutions can be broken.
 

“Even a gain of one pound of fat, is significant,” said Dr. Sharma. “That pound contains about 3,500 calories. In order to lose it, you need to burn that many calories.”
A key to calorie reduction is improving eating habits. Dr. Sharma asks her patients to start making healthier choices even before the New Year.
 

1. Avoid processed foods. They are high in calories and full of salt and fat.
 

2. Eat fewer carbohydrates. Cutting back on pasta, bread and rice is an easier way to launch into a weight loss regime. Carbs can return to the daily diet once a weight loss goal is reached.
 

3. Eat more fruits and vegetables.
 

4. Broil or grill meat, rather than frying.
 

5. Avoid the high calories in sodas, sports drinks and flavored waters. Consider water, unsweetened teas, and – occasionally – diet soda.
 

“Control the portions you have of each kind of food,” Dr. Sharma said. “Filling a small plate will help you eat smaller portions. Avoid processed foods and sugar. Sugar turns into fat, so avoid desserts as much as possible. Sugar equals weight gain!
 

“Of course, getting out for a brisk walk, working out on a treadmill, stair machine, or
taking a class at a local health club are activities you should engage in every day,” Dr. Sharma advised. “Any exercise will help you meet your goal.”

In Dr. Sharma’s research, and in her own personal weight loss experience, she has found that, although diet and exercise are both important, changes in diet are actually
more beneficial for weight loss than are changes in workout habits.

“What you want to remember is that BOTH diet and exercise play an important role in weight loss,” she advised. “Getting a jump start on it today, will help you reach your weight loss goals in the New Year.”

To make an appointment with Dr. Sharma, or another physician on the medical staff of Advocate South Suburban Hospital, call 1-800-3-ADVOCATE (1-800-323-8622).

Advocate South Suburban Hospital is a 289-bed, acute care facility that serves Chicago’s south suburbs. In addition to offering a wide array of hospital services, the not-for-profit facility provides free screenings and a variety of other outreach services throughout the community. As part of Advocate Health Care – one of the leading, integrated health care systems in the nation – Advocate South Suburban Hospital can be reached at www.advocatehealth.com/southsub or by calling 1-800-3-ADVOCATE (1-800-323-8622).