Nutrition Goals to Lose Weight

The process of losing weight can be challenging. Many people use fad diets to lose weight quickly and, in the process, they compromise their overall health by losing focus of basic nutritional needs. The only "healthy" way to lose weight is to change bad eating habits, focus on natural and nutritious food choices and exercise regularly. Rather than choosing a diet, set nutritional goals that will result in slow and steady weight loss.

Back to Basics

Don't be overwhelmed by all of the charts, pyramids and strict menus. Instead, use logic and good sense to create your weight loss nutritional goals. Four main food groups provide a multitude of food choices and help to achieve steady weight loss. Fresh fruits and vegetables are low calorie, easily digestible and boost your energy level. They should make up the bulk of your menu. Fresh fish, lean meat and poultry should be eaten in four-ounce servings, one to two times per day. Whole grains provide fiber and bulk when used to complement your diet. Milk products should be enjoyed in low- or non-fat options. Fats and oils should be used sparingly. Use these food groups as a guideline for healthy and nutritious eating. Exercise is an important component of any weight loss program. Vigorous exercise five to seven days a week helps the body burn calories. It also speeds the weight-loss process when combined with a healthy diet.

Shopping

Setting nutrition goals in order to lose weight will form good habits; however, bad habits often are hard to break. Keep "bad" food out of the house. Eating natural and nutritious food will help you to appreciate the sweetness of fruit rather than candy or the crunch of a celery stick instead of a potato chip. Shopping is an important part of this goal. Buy the majority of your groceries from the outer perimeters of a store. This is where you will find fresh and nutritious food options. Better yet, visit your local farmer's market to buy fruits, vegetables and other natural foods. And it's always best to shop on a full stomach to avoid temptation.

Health Benefits

One of the most compelling reasons to set nutrition goals for weight loss is the overall health benefits that will result. When you feed your body with the nutritious food provided by nature, you will look and feel better and help to prevent future diseases. There are many chemicals and preservatives found in the fatty, processed food that many people consume. Your body does not process these chemicals easily. When you consume fresh and natural food, your body draws vitamins, minerals and nutrients that keep you fit and healthy. The bulk of your diet should consist of fruits, vegetables, nuts, whole grains and organic meat, poultry and fish. When your body becomes healthy internally, the evidence can be seen on the outside. A lean, fit body, clear and radiant complexion and strong hair and nails are all signs of a healthy diet.