It is not just what you eat, but also how you live and think that helps you stay away from the path of obesity, according to Georgia Guldan of the biochemistry department at the Chinese University of Hong Kong. She offers the following tips:
Have the right attitude
In a culture where people expect instant results, it is not surprising that many consider healthy weight loss and developing healthy habits an uphill battle.
'Changing habits takes time and won't happen overnight. If you feel good about yourself throughout and keep in mind that you're doing it for your own benefit, you'll be more likely to stay the course,' Professor Guldan said. 'Feel good and positive about yourself and what you're doing ... for yourself. Keep your self-esteem high and be aware that you'll have bits of relapses, but just dig in and try again, as it doesn't mean you are a failure.'
Make exercise fun
People have all kinds of excuses not to exercise frequently, but it all boils down to one thing: it's tough. But Professor Guldan said it need not be.