Final answer:
To overcome a weight loss plateau, one should continue to monitor food portions, increase physical activity, eat a nutrient-dense diet, and avoid fad diets. Consulting a healthcare provider for tailored advice can also be beneficial. The objective is to make sustainable changes for long-term weight maintenance.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hitting a weight loss plateau can be frustrating, but it is a common experience when trying to lose weight healthfully. It's essential to understand that the body may adjust to lower calorie intake and increased physical activity by slowing down metabolism—a concept known as the set-point theory. To overcome this plateau, you can advise your friend to:
- Monitor food portions and calculate their daily caloric needs to ensure they are still in a caloric deficit.
- Increase physical activity, particularly through strength training, as muscle mass can boost metabolism.
- Focus on the quality of the food, ensuring nutrient-dense meals rather than just calorie counting.
- Consider consulting with a healthcare provider or nutritionist to reassess their healthy-eating guidelines and make necessary adjustments.
Remind her that slow and steady weight loss is more sustainable and healthier in the long run. Encourage her to adhere to a low-calorie, low-fat diet, engage in regular physical activity, and maintain these habits for lifelong health.
It's also important to steer clear of fad diets that promise rapid weight loss, as they are often unsustainable and lead to weight regain.