Health – Weight loss benefits brain and body

In the 11 years that I’ve worked as a weight loss coach, I have seen amazing physical changes in people when they embark on a weight loss journey.

Apart from the obvious ones of seeing someone get smaller and discovering the joy of being able to fit all the clothes in their wardrobe again, my clients report many other benefits, ranging from reduced inflammation, decreased joint pain and clearer skin to improved gut health, higher energy levels and much better blood sugar balancing.

These results are life changing but they are not the only benefits that come from making changes to your lifestyle and nutrition. 

In recent months I am noticing the real benefits to mental health that come with being on a weight loss journey, particularly when going through a challenging time like lockdown.  

When you make the decision to change your lifestyle and lose weight, you are taking a positive step towards your health. This is empowering, especially in a time when the health system is being challenged. You know that you are doing your part, taking responsibility for your health with the decisions you are making each day.

Having a food plan takes all the guesswork away from eating. It is one less thing you have to think about. At a time when mental energy is drained from having to deal with extra challenges outside our usual routines (for example, home schooling), this is a real win.

A goal also gives hope – something to focus on and look forward to. While we don’t know exactly what this summer will look like, the prospect of being able to wear your summer clothes is more exciting when everything in your wardrobe fits.

The extra energy and vitality that comes from losing weight does wonders for confidence and joy and, unlike the physical changes that can take a little while to be noticed, these mental health benefits are felt immediately. 

Being in lockdown is no barrier to weight loss. I have had five clients get to their goal weight in the last two months. They are proud of themselves and excited at the prospect of being able to hit the shops and get some new clothes.

If you have gained weight in lockdown and aren’t feeling good about it, you can do something right now. Start with small actions: reduce portion sizes, sugar and alcohol, increase portions of protein and vegetables and cut out the snacking. Small changes lead to big results. For fast results and greater accountability, contact a practitioner and get a food plan.

At a time when there is so much that is outside our control, it is empowering to take ownership of your health. Your mind, as well as your body, will thank you.