Creating Long Term Nutrition Habits

Author: Brian Waldo CSCS, CES, PES, PN, WLS, FNS, MATjs

As a coach and trainer for 38 years now, it is always interesting to learn new things about what helps people make sustainable changes they can maintain over time. Trust me, I have tried many of the fad diets, detoxes, supplement plans etc with clients over the years. What I have learned is that the clients that have the most success put in the work daily creating habit changes that last. Everyone's process is different and the choices that need to be mad can be vastly different from one person to the next.

The recent introduction of GLP-1 meds over the last few years has given people more options for the short term. However, if one is to be successful for the long haul, persistent effort to make long term nutrition changes are critical to one's outcome even with medication.

Today's blog highlights some of the journey of one of my nutrition coaching clients by the name of Joe. We will highlight how what he is doing now compares to things he has tried in the past. This is in a Q&A format and I hope you find it interesting.

Question 1: How many times have you tried to lose weight in the past prior to attending TFW East Metro and adding nutrition coaching?

Joe said, "At least five times. I was able to achieve similar results 20 years ago using Weight Watchers. I gained it all back with a hectic life including work, career etc.."

What was your mentality about weight loss or a healthy weight prior to TFW and getting addon coaching for nutrition?

Joe said, "I always knew I needed to improve my health, previously focusing on workout out. With my dad's diagnosis of Alzheimer's a focus on eating better became a second priority for my health, along with reinforcing the need for strength and cardio training for long term health.

How does what you are doing now differ from previous efforts?

Joe stated, "Now I am thinking about what I eat, focusing on protein and vegetables. I wasn't about what I ate in the past."

What is your current long term view on how you will maintain your weight and health?

Joe's response, "My current view is unsure. I have gained some weight back

(approximately 8lbs) since completing my coaching. I need to be more diligent and course correct while pursuing the habits that allowed me to lose the weight.

In your opinion, what was the single most effective change you made and why?

Joe said, "There are two. the first is I don't have to be perfect with my eating and working out. I can have a day or two where I don't follow the good habits, but coming back to them is key. The other is ensuring I have some vegetables with every meal. Have them puts focus on healthy food which automatically move away from unhealthy options. An example is when I am out to eat and have a hamburger, pick a salad instead the fries to get my vegetables. I remove some of the carbs, and fat calories from the fries etc...

I want to thank Joe for sharing a bit of his journey. As a Coach who works with people every day that are attempting to be healthier, I feel it is important to recognize that small changes can go a long way to creating the changes you need and want. Better long term health and longevity in what you can do is possible and perfection is not required! Getting ample protein, vegetables and water are key steps.