Keeping the Weight Off.

Losing weight is not the ultimate goal. Keeping it off is.

It’s easier to lose weight than it is to keep it off for the long term. At New Dimensions, we know that success comes from the integration of weight loss techniques and tools with the support of doctors and staff who are behind you for many years to come. We like to compare obesity to any other non-curable disease that must be regulated with medication and/or behavior modification throughout a person’s life. Here are some of the steps involved in keeping weight from returning:

Step 1: Controlling Appetite

Because of obesity’s chronic nature, controlling appetite will always remain an important consideration in keeping the weight off. So how do you do it?

  • Stay ahead of the cravings. Many patients find that planning food each morning (or sometimes a week at a time) helps them to stay on track.
  • Create a mantra. Make up a quick phrase you can tell yourself when you face temptation. It might be something like, “Food can’t fill the void,” or even something silly like, “No looky at the cookies.”
  • Medication is an option. As the understanding of obesity becomes clearer, the future of medication is very exciting for controlling appetite.
Dr. Sabowitz says: “I have a conversation with myself every day to make sure I take the stairs up one flight to my second floor office, and most of the time, I do it. Patients should remember that the disease of obesity will always tell them to park closer to the door or to eat the donuts that are sitting out. Staying in tune with ourselves is important in controlling our weight in the future.”

Step 2: Know What You’re Eating

This step sounds simple, but it’s hugely important. To keep off the weight, you have to:

  • Look at food labels.
  • Look up food values online or in books.
  • Track your daily intake.
  • Ask for help.

As part of your transition process, New Dimensions will help you plan a maintenance strategy that fits your lifestyle. But if you ever feel like you’re eating is out of control, we’re right here to help you re-commit to a plan that works.

Step 3: Exercise

Behaviorally, the inertia with beginning exercise tends to be in getting started, New Dimensions’ initial prescription is aimed at overcoming this.

  • It’s easier when weight has been lost. Patients are often surprised at how much easier it is to get physical activity into their days once they’ve lost even a few pounds.
  • Little things add up. Patients are often surprised to learn how easy it can be to get in exercise through subtle lifestyle changes like parking farther from the door or taking a daily walk after dinner.
  • Create a program that you can follow. Not sure how to get started? Check out our Exercise Tips page for ideas about choosing an activity that fits your lifestyle.
  • Exercise can be a great distraction. From stresses or other triggers that make patients want to eat things they shouldn’t.

Step 4: Find Support. Be Supportive.

As you find (and build) a positive community around you, it reinforces your success and inspires you to keep going. We suggest:

  • Go to support groups. There are weekly support groups right here in San Antonio where you can connect with people in all phases of the weight loss process.
  • Sign up to be a New Dimensions advocate. Sharing your excitement by speaking to other patients can help you to stay accountable.
  • Visit New Dimensions. We’re always excited to talk to patients, especially if you haven’t been in for a while. If you’re feeling disconnected or having trouble with your weight, we’re here to provide the support you need to get back on track.
  • Go online. There are lots of online communities devoted to both surgical and non-surgical weight loss. You can even just lurk (read other people’s comments) until you’re comfortable enough to interact or share your story.
  • Be your own advocate at work. With birthday cakes, unhealthy snacks and required client dinners, the workplace can often pose a problem for patients in terms of support. It’s integral that you make a plan that fits your needs and stick to it. If anyone gives you trouble, tell them you’re following your doctor’s orders.

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