It’s no secret that society values thin, lean figures. With celebrity bodies gracing movie screens and magazines, there’s virtually no escape from what may be very real pressure to diet. With an increase in advertising for diet pills and meal plans, it may be difficult to determine what’s healthy and what’s risky. Society’s demand for “instant gratification” often results in mass production of the lucky “trend” product. “Results not typical” is the common catchphrase for many of these ads, so how exactly does one decide what is typical? Most health professionals will agree that diet pill supplements are not the best choice when choosing to lose weight. The supplements may also produce health risks such as high blood pressure, heart palpitations, headaches, anxiety and depression. Not every diet pill will include these symptoms, but users should be aware of the possibilities nonetheless.
For some people, eating a diet consisting of healthier foods makes more sense than swallowing a “miracle” pill. Popular plans such as Nutrisystem and Jenny Craig offer healthful meals delivered to your door. Besides the start-up fee, Nutrisystem costs $12.23 per day, while Jenny Craig amounts to $23.99 per month. Clearly, not many college students can afford to spend this much to shed pounds.
Weight Watchers, however, claims to keep weight off for the long haul. The program requires more than just a focus on food. It encourages the Weight Watcher’s “Four Pillars” approach, comprised of Behavior, Support, Exercise and Food. This method promotes healthy habits, a supportive environment, and regular exercise, as well as making smarter food choices. The program claims a 97 percent recommendation rate from people who have tried it. Conveniently, Weight Watchers is accessible both online and in meetings. Per month, it costs $39.95, a price not too user-friendly for college students.
While popping diet pill supplements and chowing healthy meals may benefit your body temporarily, exercise will help it look and feel good, in side and out, for years to come.
For beginners, consider starting with two to three sessions per week. Intensity is how hard you exercise. Time is how long you perform an activity. It can also refer to the number of sets or repetitions performed during weight training. Remember to choose an activity that is enjoyable. Working out isn’t always rewarding by oneself: Bring friends along and share the experience. Spending afternoons in the gym isn’t the only option, either. Taking walks in neighborhoods or jogging around Lake Winona are great for outdoor activities. Start gradually; don’t overexert your body. Evaluate your progress, but don’t punish yourself for not always meeting expectations. In a world where only the impossible is perfect, be the best you can be for yourself.