Is 10 Pounds in a Month a Good Weight Loss Goal?

Weight loss requires focus and commitment, and most people want to get to their goal weight as soon as possible. So what is a good monthly goal to set for weight loss? Provided you have the weight to lose, and you are in general good health, 10 pounds in a month is a challenging, but reasonable amount to lose. Setting a challenging goal has some advantages. For one thing, it requires you to stay strict with your diet and exercise routine, which works as a positive feedback loop because the more consistent you are, the more weight you lose. Challenges are also very motivating. The goal becomes more than just weight loss; you also want to be able to say, “I did it!” Is It Safe to Lose 10 Pounds in a Month? Losing 10 pounds a month is considered fast weight loss, and you might be wondering if fast weight loss is healthy. It can be, but it will depend on how you go about it. If you practice unsafe behaviors, like starvation, excessive exercise, or use laxatives or drugs, then your weight loss will be unsafe. But fast weight loss does not require these types of practices. You can lose 10 pounds in a natural and safe manner by following these recommendations. How to lose 10 pounds Naturally and safely 1. Diet sensibly. Focus your food choices on nutrient-dense foods that are naturally low in calories, such as leafy greens, non-starchy vegetables, and beans. The nutrients and fiber in these foods biochemically fill you up, which satisfies your body and keeps hunger and cravings away. You also want to include some healthy fats from whole food sources from nuts, seeds, and avocados. These fats support your health and aid weight loss when eaten in moderation whereas unhealthy fats, like trans fats hamper weight loss. You can make your diet simple by having a large salad every day. Make the base of the salad leafy greens, and top with assorted vegetables (i.e. tomato, onion, mushrooms, etc.), black beans, and walnuts. Additional foods, like fruit and lean meats, can round out a healthy diet. But, processed foods and sugary foods should be avoided. 2. Exercise sensibly. Exercise can speed weight loss, but too much will stimulate your appetite. To improve your results without the hunger, choose an exercise you enjoy and start slowly. For the first few days, exercise at a level that is just above your comfort zone, and then increase your intensity every few days. 3. Keep a positive attitude. With a sensible diet and exercise plan in place, the only other thing you need to add is a beneficial attitude. Keep in mind that your motivation to reach your goal will ebb and flow during the month. To stay focused, form a picture in your mind to remind yourself of why you are working to lose 10 pounds. Do you have a special event coming up? If so, picture yourself walking into the event looking fit and trim. Losing ten pounds in a month is a good weight loss goal, provided you have the weight to lose. The goal is motivational and can be done safely when you follow a sensible diet and exercise routine.