Barriers to Weight Loss Checklist

All of us run into trouble keeping our heads focused on the habits that will help us reach our weight loss goals. Learning how our habits may have changed is important if we are to get back on track. It's not "lack of motivation.” Simply, we have lost some of the important habits that had us losing quickly when we started. So, go through this checklist often. Analyze each and every one to see if there is something you can identify that will help you get back on track.

Accuracy of recording:
• Is absolutely everything you have eaten written down?
• Do you accurately measure your portions?

Weighing and weekly review:
• Are you keeping your weekly appointments? (Regardless of whether or not you've done "well” on any particular week)

Your pattern of eating:
• Do you eat regular meals and snacks?
• Do you skip any meals?
• Do you go for long periods without eating?
• Do you nibble or pick at food?
• Do you have "binges” (large or small)?

Your portion sizes:
• Are your portion sizes too large?
• Do you take second helpings?
• Do you always finish everything on your plate?
• Do you eat your children's leftovers?

Your choice of foods and drinks:
• Are you prone to eating high carb foods?
• Are you avoiding any foods?

How you eat:
• Do you eat rapidly?
• Do you eat in places other than the kitchen or dining room?
• Do you eat while watching television?
• Do you eat while driving?
• Is your eating planned in advance?

Other obstacles to weight loss:
• Have you lost your motivation to lose weight?
• Are you prone to stress eating?
• Are you liable to eat when bored?
• Are you facing other obstacles to losing weight?

Staying on track is never easy. Discover those habits that have put you off track and see if you can change them. We need to look at our habits of eating regularly. Don't ever give up; this process is a long one and can be emotionally challenging, but you can do it.

Dr. Doug