How To Know When I've Hit My Ideal Weight

Weight loss is a slippery slope in more ways than one. You’ll be faced with new challenges and it can be incredibly difficult to break bad habits.

Even when we reach the end of our journey and find ourselves looking and feeling good, if we’re not careful, we can unknowingly go too far. You don't want to become obsessed with weight loss and go beyond a healthy point, so it's important to know when you've hit your ideal weight. 

Determining your ideal weight goes well beyond the number on the scale! Weight alone is not always an indication of health.

1. Health Improvements: Monitor improvements in key health markers. It's a good idea to get a blood test in this case so you'll know if you have healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels. You can also check your own BMI. But be sure to include your waist circumference otherwise you're not getting an accurate number! 
2. Mood & Emotional Wellbeing: How are you feeling? Do you think you look good? Are you fitting into old clothes? The way you feel is a massive indicator of any health journey. If you've lost too much weight you're probably going to end up feeling fatigued, sluggish and irritable.
3. Fitness Levels: Assess your physical fitness and functional abilities. Being able to perform daily tasks and engaging in physical activity without discomfort is a good indicator you're in tip-top shape.

Ultimately, your ideal weight is what leaves you feeling good physically, mentally and emotionally!

In order to begin a weight loss journey, you need to go in with a positive mindset. Your goal isn’t to be skinny, it’s to become healthy. Health is not determined by a number on a scale, and prioritising your mental health and emotional wellbeing is just as important as achieving your physical goals.

Strive for a balanced approach that includes foods from all food groups and allows for the occasional indulgence. Listen to your body's hunger and fullness cues, and avoid extreme calorie-restricted diets and overexercising. A weight loss journey is also a health and wellness journey, and you shouldn’t be doing it for anyone but yourself!